Divorce Proceedings
Divorce is the legal ending of a marriage through the Court system.
We will explain and guide you through the process whether as the Petitioner or Respondent and advise you on the implications and associated issues.
If appropriate, we will discuss conciliation services and options other than divorce.
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Financial Matters
Whether yours is a high asset case or there are limited assets, the settling of financial arrangements is critical following the break-up of a relationship.
There are significant differences between married and co-habiting couples relating to property rights.
It is very important to get expert advice to understand your options and to maximise your position.
If appropriate, we will use the services of experts such as property valuers and pension actuaries. We will also discuss whether Mediation is appropriate.
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Children
Disagreements over children can arise when couples separate or at any stage whilst children are minors. These disputes can relate to where the children live, how much time they spend with a parent (contact) or whether an ex partner should have parental responsibility to name but a few. We can assist you in trying to agree the way forward with your ex partner, or if agreement cannot be reached, we can assist and support you through the Court process.
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Pre-Marital, Co-Habitation and Separation Agreements
These agreements are becoming increasingly significant in English law as a means of formalising arrangements (usually financial) between parties either entering a relationship or when a relationship ends but a divorce is not wanted or appropriate.
We can advise on the scope, strengths and limitations of each arrangement, negotiate the terms and draw up the agreements.
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Domestic Violence
If you have been the victim of domestic violence, please contact a member of our Family team to discuss the possibility of obtaining an injunction. An injunction can prevent further harm being caused to you and/or can order that named person leave the former family home.
Other useful organisations that can assist with issues of domestic violence include:
Women's Aid - www.womensaid.org.uk 0800 2000 247
Refuge - www.refuge.org.uk
Male advice and enquiry line - 0845 064 6800
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Civil Partnerships
Introduced in 2005, Civil Partnerships in many ways resemble a marriage but for same sex relationships.
We can advise parties thinking of entering into a Partnership or assist you through the legal process if the Partnership has ended when many of the remedies available in divorce can also be sought.
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Care proceedings
Social Services can become involved where there are concerns about children. This can be a very stressful time for parents and relatives. It is essential that you and your family obtain legal advice to assist you in working with Social Services. If matters have become more serious, Social Services can apply to the Court for an order to remove the children from your care. You are entitled to FREE LEGAL AID if you are a parent, or have a residence order in respect of a child. We have extensive experience of acting for both parents and children in these type of proceedings.
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Adoption
You may be a relative, step parent or foster carer and wish to know your legal rights in respect of a child. You may wish to secure your legal rights over a child. We can advise you on the various options open to you as under new legislation, there are alternatives to adoption which may assist.
We will advise you on the approach likely to be taken by the Court to any children proceedings. Wherever possible we will try to reach an agreement which reflects what is in the best interests of the children.
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