Divorce & family law

It is difficult to think straight when it feels like your life is falling apart in every direction. We are divorce specialists and deal with every kind of divorce — from large and complex cases involving private companies, property empires, trusts and international or hidden assets, through to straightforward separations. Every client is assured of our best attention.

Contested divorce can be very expensive, so from the first meeting we work to find the best solution for you as early as possible. We explain the process and the law in plain English so you can make informed decisions.

There are never clear winners in separation and divorce. We help you work out the right way forward for your situation and negotiate effectively and constructively. Whatever happens, we will calmly see you through it and act in your best interests.

We encourage clients to keep an open mind, be reasonable and keep emotion to a minimum — when you are upset, angry or bitter it is hard to judge any offer on its merits. You do not want our sympathy; you want impartial, practical advice about what is best for you, and that is what we give.

The courts expect all parties to consider some form of alternative dispute resolution, such as mediation. Although the starting point in matrimonial matters is that each party pays their own costs, a party who unreasonably refuses may face costs sanctions.

• Amicable separations and divorces — turning a fair, agreed plan into a legally binding one
• Collaborative law and mediation — resolving the issues without confrontation wherever possible
• Contested hearings — a firm, effective voice in court when negotiation is unsuitable or has failed
• Children Act matters — living and contact arrangements, with the children's best interests at the heart of every discussion
• Financial settlements — full and frank disclosure and a fair division of assets, including complex claims with corporate, offshore and international elements
• Domestic violence — urgent injunction orders, with a power of arrest attached where necessary
• Family law for unmarried couples — children matters and claims under the Trusts of Land and Appointment of Trustees Act 1996 (TOLATA)
• Cohabitation agreements — who owns what, how bills are shared and maintenance for children, agreed in advance and enforceable
• Child care proceedings — skilled representation when social services are involved with your children
• Pre-nuptial and post-nuptial agreements — difficult conversations made less awkward, with terms that make sense to you both

The starting point in matrimonial matters is that each party pays their own legal costs, although the court can make costs orders against a party who acts unreasonably. Because contested proceedings are expensive, we always explore whether an amicable or mediated resolution can settle matters sooner and at lower cost.

We will give you a clear costs estimate at the outset, tailored to the complexity of your matter, and keep it under review as your case progresses.

• Get a divorce — a gov.uk guide
• The Law Society — getting a divorce