Matrimonial

We understand and are sympathetic to our clients’ concerns at this difficult time in their lives. People are usually worried about things like ‘what happens to the house’ and ‘can I afford to live the way I used to’. Our expertise can guide you through the whole legal process including court attendance if absolutely necessary. In all cases, our job is to use our skills to arrive at a fair solution for you, in an understanding and caring way.

Our matrimonial department services include:

Pre-nuptials
Divorce
Children’s applications
Financial claims
Civil partnerships

Pre-nuptials: These are often used to show intention, especially for second marriages.  In certain circumstances pre-nuptials are now being given more credence by the court when resolving finances, but they have no legal basis in the UK.  We help craft an agreement right for you having regard to all your circumstances. 
 
Divorce: We urge you to take your time and give careful consideration over such a life-changing decision, but we find at the point someone consults a solicitor, they have already made up their mind about divorce. We will guide you through every stage from the petition to the decree nisi and decree absolute, considering financial implications at the same time such as pension funds or death-in-service benefits.

There are five grounds for divorce in the UK

1. Adultery
2. Unreasonable behaviour
3. Two years’ separation (with consent)
4. Five years’ separation (without consent)
5. Desertion (two years or more)

Financial matters: We help you negotiate and settle financial matters following a divorce.  This may include dealing with ownership of the matrimonial home, maintenance for you and/or your children and acting to protect or preserve your assets.

Domestic violence: We can obtain and injunction to protect you from domestic violence. 
 
Children’s applications: We can help you on matters concerning residence, parental responsibility and contact arrangements.

Civil Partnerships: Same sex couples now have the same rights as married couples with regard to matters such as pension rights and maintenance.   Grounds for divorce though differ slightly from the above as adultery is not a ground to bring a civil partnership to an end