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Divorce Solicitors

Divorce Solicitors based in Sheffield, Barnsley, Rotherham delivering advice in London and Nationwide

Going through a divorce can be emotionally challenging and time-consuming. An experienced divorce solicitor can guide you through the legal process, helping to make it as straightforward as possible.

 

Some of the most stressful aspects of divorce include dividing assets, property, and finances, as well as agreeing on living arrangements and child custody plans. It’s important to remember that agreements made early in the process can change over time, which may lead to disputes without the right legal support.

 

Our experienced divorce solicitors are part of one of the largest family law teams in the North of England, recognised by The Legal 500 as one of the top family law firms in the UK.

 

We are accredited by both Resolution and the Law Society, demonstrating our commitment to excellence and a constructive approach to family law. With numerous positive client reviews, we’re proud to hold a 4.9 out of 5 rating on Review Solicitors.

 

We offer a free 30-minute consultation for new clients, available via phone, video call, or in-person appointment. Our fixed-fee divorce services start from just £275 plus VAT, making us one of the most affordable options for high-quality family law services in the South.

 

Our Divorce Solicitors based in Sheffield, Barnsley & Rotherham

A family lawyer does more than just handle paperwork during the divorce process. We are with you throughout the entire process, providing invaluable divorce advice and professional and emotional support.

A solicitor for divorce can help you with your divorce application. They will handle all the paperwork involved. They can also help negotiate financial settlements and arrangements for your children. We can also represent you at family court if needed.

We know that reaching out to a divorce lawyer can be stressful. However, our team is friendly and easy to talk to. You can find a number of client reviews on our Review Solicitors profile. Remember, we are on your side and can help you rebuild for the future.

Our divorce solicitors cover the full spectrum of divorce cases, including:

  • Legal advice on the divorce procedure.
  • How to apply for divorce.
  • Fixed Fee Divorce.
  • Clean break orders and other financial orders.
  • Complex divorce matters, including divorce financial settlements and child and property arrangements.
  • Child maintenance matters.
  • Collaborative law.
  • Pre-nuptial and post-nuptial agreements.
  • Divorce work across a range of cultures/religions.
  • Guidance on pensions, wills, and trusts.
  • Professionals/public sector workers.
  • Those with pensions to claim or protect.
  • Protection for vulnerable clients.
  • Advice during mediation.
  • Separation agreements.
  • Divorce involving business and investment interests.

Contact us or call us on 0114 2235 807 to book your free consultation today.

Our Promise To You

Divorce and separation does not have to be complicated or costly. If you are thinking about separating or getting divorced, we can help. We offer advice with affordable fixed fees or competitive hourly rates. This way, you can get the support you need at a price you can afford.

The Howells Solicitors promise to you:

No surprises. We will give you a written estimate of costs at the start of your case. We will also keep you updated on your costs regularly.

No legal jargon. We will take time to understand your needs. We will give clear explanations, so you know what is happening at every step.

Minimise stress. The breakdown of a relationship is one of the most difficult situations anyone can encounter. We will help you reach the best possible outcome for you and your family with the least possible distress.

We know how important it is to find friendly solutions to the problems that come up during divorce or separation. We will always keep your best interests in mind. We will work hard to get you the best outcome possible.

Fair pricing. We always do our best to minimise cost where possible. Our fixed fees and transparent costings mean you know how much your legal work will cost. Our hourly rates are some of the most competitive across England and Wales.

No Fault Divorce

in 2022, no fault divorce came into effect in UK divorce law. Since then, separated couples can apply for a divorce without assigning blame for the marriage breakdown. The benefits of no fault divorce is:

  • No fault divorce removes the ‘blame game’.
  • Couples can apply for divorce together.
  • You can no longer contest a divorce.
  • The divorce process may be quicker.
  • No fault divorce is better for families with children.

Learn more on No Fault Divorce – UK Divorce Law Changes Explained

What are the Grounds for Divorce?

Since no-fault divorce started, the only reason for divorce is that the relationship has completely broken down. There is no longer need to assign blame.

Learn more on What are the Grounds for Divorce?

Fixed Fee Divorce

fixed fee divorce is just like any other divorce process, however you know the cost upfront. Dealing with a divorce can be distressing and drawn out, and money worries can only add to the stress. Having a clear idea of the cost of divorce upfront can help remove some of the financial worries.

This is why our divorce lawyers provide a fixed fee divorce package. It helps you feel secure about costs.

Our divorce solicitors provide quality divorce advice at a lower cost than most family law firms. This is especially true compared to firms in the south of England.

Collaborative Law

Collaborative law allows both parties and their lawyers to meet. They work together to find terms for a separation that everyone agrees on. This legal process avoids involving the Courts to make decisions on your behalf.

Find out more on our collaborative law page.

Starting a Divorce Proceeding

If you’re starting divorce proceedings against your spouse, this means you’re the applicant. You will be responsible for completing and submitting the divorce application, which we can do on your behalf. Our divorce fees start at £275 + VAT (£55), plus Court fees and disbursements.

These do not include costs to reach an agreement on any matters to do with finances, assets or children.

Responding to a Divorce

If your spouse has issued divorce proceedings against you, this means you’re the respondent. Our divorce solicitors will send you the completed divorce application once the Court issues it. Our divorce fees for divorce proceedings start at £275 + VAT (£55). You do not pay the court fee if you are the respondent.

How are Finances Split in a Divorce?

Divorce brings marriage to a legal end in England & Wales, but it does not end the financial commitments between the couple. To end financial responsibilities after a divorce, you need a financial consent order or a clean break order. You can get this done with a divorce solicitor.

These orders help protect your money. This will ensure that each person completely separates their financial affairs from one another, free from future claims.

Formally resolving financial issues is vital for your future and the future of your children. Our specialist team of divorce solicitors are experts in achieving fair divorce financial settlements and dealing with uncooperative spouses.

Online Divorce

If you have dealt with a divorce online, you will still need to resolve any financial and children matters yourselves. Our divorce solicitors can also support with financial settlements after an online divorce.

Who Gets Custody of Children in a Divorce?

A divorce will legally end the marriage, however you will still need to deal with any child custody arrangements. Many families manage this amicably however others need assistance from solicitors.

Our divorce solicitors can help decide where the children will live. They can also assist with who the children can visit and when. We can help with school arrangements and plans if one parent moves away.

Learn more on our child custody page.

How Long Does It Take to get a Divorce?

The average time it takes to get a divorce is around eight to ten months. However, the process can take longer, depending on many circumstances. To get a more realistic idea, it’s best to consult a divorce solicitor.

Do I Need a Solicitor to Deal With My Divorce

The honest answer is no, you can apply and file for divorce yourself. A divorce application will end the marriage.

However, it will not settle financial commitments between you both. It also won’t arrange the separation of assets or handle child custody arrangements. This may not be straightforward, especially if there has been conflict during the process.

Learn more on Do I Need a Solicitor for a Divorce?

Free Family Law Advice

Our divorce solicitors offer a free legal consultation to new clients. You can book an appointment by telephone, video call or in person.

Contact us or call us on 0114 2235 807 to book your free consultation today.

Our Divorce Solicitors

Our Divorce Solicitors represent clients in:

– South Yorkshire, including Sheffield, Barnsley, Rotherham & Doncaster 

– Derbyshire, including Chesterfield

– Other South Yorkshire areas

– Nottinghamshire

London and surrounding areas

– Nationwide (throughout England)

The divorce solicitors provide a free 30-minute consultation for your first visit. You can meet in person, by phone, or online.

Contact us or call us on 0114 2235 807 to book your free consultation today.

How Much Will It Cost to Get a Divorce?

Our divorce solicitors offer transparent and affordable prices to suit all financial circumstances. They will always keep you up to date with costs and offer fixed fees for most areas, so you remain in full control. We design our affordable and fixed fee services to give you peace of mind over costs during what can be a stressful time.

Learn more on How Much Does Divorce Cost?.

Contact us or call us on 0114 2235 807 to book your free appointment today.

Flexible Family Law Appointments

We understand that dealing with family law matters can be stressful, and finding time to attend in-person appointments isn’t always easy. That’s why we offer our full range of family law services remotely, offering a more efficient and convenient service.

We are able to offer advice nationwide on that basis, which can often work out to be cheaper and more convenient, frequently providing representation to family law clients around the whole country.

We can offer our family law legal support via telephone or secure online meetings. This approach allows you to access expert legal advice from the comfort of your home, without the need to travel or rearrange your schedule. I

If your case requires a court hearing, many such procedural matters are now handled remotely too, or if in person we can arrange representation by a suitable local barrister, ensuring your legal journey is as smooth and accessible as possible.

Our remote services are designed to be just as personal and confidential as in-person consultations, with clear communication and full transparency every step of the way.

Remote appointments are offered throughout the case, and most correspondence is handled by email. Whether you’re dealing with sensitive family matters or simply seeking guidance, we ensure a smooth, stress-free experience that puts your needs first.

If you do wish to meet us face to face, you can book an appointment at one of our offices in Sheffield, Barnsley or Rotherham. While remote services offer convenience, they may not be suitable for those with limited digital literacy or access or where safeguarding is critical.

Contact us or call us on 0114 2235 807 to speak to a family law expert or book an appointment today.

 

 

Divorce Solicitors Frequently Asked Questions

 

How do I choose a Solicitor for Divorce?

Working with solicitor for divorce is recommended. A divorce lawyer can give you advice and support. They can also help you choose a good plan.

 

Who pays for a Divorce?

Generally, each person getting divorced will pay their own legal costs. The cost of divorce includes the court fee and the costs of the solicitors who assist the parties with the process.

 

Can I get a DIY Divorce?

Divorcing couples can go through a DIY divorce, dealing with the divorce process themselves. A DIY divorce has risks. This is especially true for unresolved financial issues or disagreements about children and assets.

Learn more in DIY divorce.

 

What happens if you’re separated but not divorced?

Some couples believe that after a long separation, they have lost all financial and emotional ties. Some people think it makes more financial sense to separate instead of divorcing. This can help save money on the divorce process, especially if they have separated peacefully.

There are many pitfalls to think about. Learn more on What Happens If You’re Separated But Not Divorced?

 

How do I protect assets during a divorce?

Protecting your assets completely during a divorce can be challenging. However, there are steps you can take to safeguard them.

You should talk to a family law solicitor. They can help you explore your options for protecting your assets during divorce. They will also explain your rights and entitlements.

Learn more on Protecting Assets During a Divorce

 

Is it possible to achieve an amicable divorce?

An amicable, or ‘good divorce’, is possible to achieve, through early legal advice. Legal advice at the early stages of separation will promote a friendly and long-lasting resolution of any issues.

Learn more on How to Achieve an Amicable Divorce

Free Legal Consultation Family Law

Our divorce team offer a free legal consultation to new clients. You can book an appointment by telephone, video call or in person You can book a consultation to have by telephone, video call or in person, at a time that suits your needs.

Book Now

How can we help? Contact us today

Contact us on 0114 2235 807 and one of our advisors will be in touch to discuss your situation. We will take some initial information and if we can help, we will book you in for a consultation with a legal professional.

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The Howells Solicitors law team are compassionate, down-to-earth and professional, offering you the best expert advice. Get in touch with solicitors in Sheffield, Rotherham, and Barnsley to see how we can help. Fill in the form or give us a call at:

Solicitors for Divorce

The Howells family law solicitors are one of the largest family law teams in the region, probably the UK. They specialise in many family law services.

These include divorce, financial settlements, and child custody arrangements. They also handle collaborative law, care proceedings, and adoption. Other areas include guardianship, child abduction, and domestic abuse.

The family team has a great reputation for handling many types of cases. They work with high-net-worth finances and complex child cases. The team also have extensive experience of representing clients at court, including parents, grandparents, guardians, and children.

The team covers the entirety of South Yorkshire and the UK, with offices in Sheffield, Barnsley, and Rotherham. They also often receive instructions from clients all over the UK. This includes regular clients in London and nearby areas.

The team ranks number 2 in Sheffield and number 1 in Rotherham and Barnsley on Review Solicitors. They have an average rating of 4.9 out of 5 stars.

Additionally, 99% of former clients say they would recommend the firm. This shows the quality of advice they provide and their excellent client care. The team are often praised for their professionalism, compassion, empathy, and kindness.

The team are supervised by our family law solicitor and director John Clegg. John is a family law expert.

He handles all parts of family law. This includes divorce, civil partnerships, and cohabitation issues. He also deals with financial matters that come up during separation and divorce.

John works on pre-nuptial and post-nuptial agreements. He helps protect people from domestic abuse. John is also accredited as one of the top solicitors in the UK by the prestigious Chambers and Partners.

 

The matrimonial team is led by senior divorce solicitor and director Sharon Lockwood. She is well-respected in Rotherham and South Yorkshire. Sharon is a specialist in complex cases involving children and high value assets.

Sharon is very active in the South Yorkshire community. She gets a lot of praise from her clients and colleagues. She has become one of the top divorce specialists in the area.

Client Feedback

“Thank you so much for all you have done. I cannot speak highly enough of you & everyone I have met at Howells. I have already recommended Howells & yourself to the specialist teams I am now in contact with & will continue to do so.”

“Many thanks again for your invaluable help, advice and your calm, approachable manner. It is very much appreciated!”

“Howells provided a great service and worked quickly and efficiently to get the job completed to try to keep my costs down too. I would recommend Sharon and the team.”

“Excellent service with prompt response time.”

“I used Sharon Lockwood in my extremely messy and prolonged divorce case, and I cannot thank her enough. She was kind and caring at times when I was very distressed and at the same time both efficient and professional.”

“Sharon was exceptional from our first telephone call and throughout this process. Professional, supportive, knowledgeable, and very clear.”

“Sharon has been a rock she explains everything every step of the way she has gotten me through a very tough year, and I will be for ever grateful to her.”

“I chose to sort my divorce and financial settlement with Sharon Lockwood at Howells solicitors after seeing other reviews. I was not disappointed in any way, shape, or form. She is very professional and quick off the ball. I would highly recommend Sharon and her colleagues at Howells for a fast and very efficient service and would use again if needed.”

Legal 500 Ranking

2018 – Tier 3 – “The Howells family team works across Sheffield, Rotherham and Barnsley, with Alyson Siddall focusing on high-value financial work, and co-leading the team alongside Sharon Lockwood, whose expertise lies in matters involving tax elements and inherited assets, and John Clegg, who brings extensive experience regarding complex cases involving children. The team undertakes a wide range of family work, with notable expertise in working on complex domestic abuse and care cases.”

2021 – Tier 2 – “Howells fields a substantial family team, which also features eight Children Panel members and five Resolution accredited panel members. Practice head Alyson Siddall is a key name for high-value financial work, advising clients in high-net-worth cases involving significant assets and pensions. John Clegg is particularly well known and respected for children and finance work. He is one of a handful of solicitors in the city who still does finance legal aid work.”

2022 – Tier 1 Ranking – “The team are particularly well known for high-net-worth cases. In addition, the practice has a strong regional reputation.”

2023 – Tier 2 Ranking – “The team undertakes a wide range of family work, with notable expertise in working on complex domestic abuse and care cases.”

2024- Tier 2 Ranking

Professional Feedback

“A go to for complex children matters. Is thorough and deals with cases with a level of detail and knowledge that are truly impressive. Has the detail of every aspect of the case at her fingertips. She is also sensitive and compassionate in her approach to clients, but quite capable of delivering difficult and realistic advice.”

“Sharon Lockwood is dedicated to seeking very practical solutions to financial cases. Tenacious but also very realistic at the same time”

“Alyson Siddall is a pleasure to deal with and is very knowledgeable and competent. She also has a very calm manner, which I am sure is appreciated by clients and other professionals alike.”

“An effective and tenacious advocate known for his thorough, sensible and constructive approach. Has a wealth of knowledge and experience in all areas of financial and children cases and the safest pair of hands no matter how difficult the case.”

“Excellent Collaborative lawyer and a leading family solicitor in Sheffield. Experienced, dedicated and knowledgeable.”

“Thorough in preparation, experienced, excellent with clients, willing to go above and beyond and a strong presence in the courtroom.”

John Clegg

Family Law

0114 249 6795
Sharon Lockwood

Family Law

01709 364000
Caroline Euinton

Family Law

0114 249 6643
Louise Ellis

Family Law

01709 364 000
Ramandeep Kaur

Family Law

0114 249 6703
Wendy Bailey

Family Law

01226 805 190
Danielle Mahyar

Family Law

01226 805 190
Laura Hill

Family Law

0114 249 6638
Colin Musgrave

Family Law

0114 249 6709
Michaela Logue

Family Law

0114 2496666
Cody Minshall

Family Law

0114 249 6656
Ben Thompson

Family Law

0114 2496666
Alexandria Broadley

Family Law

0114 2496 640