Divorce & Family
Separating from a partner can be a difficult and stressful experience for the parties involved. Here at Hedleys-Law, we understand this. Our aim is to help you through these tough times and, wherever we can, to bear some of the load. Our friendly staff can advise you on all aspects of separation, offering you the benefit of our experience at very competitive rates.
To discuss your particular circumstances and arrange your free initial consultation, either at the office or by telephone, please contact us.
Obtaining a divorce
Hedleys-Law offers a service that is tailored to your own specific needs. At your initial consultation, we will discuss your personal circumstances and the degree of assistance you require. The costs of the divorce will naturally depend on the level of assistance you require although in all cases the normal court fees are payable. Issuing a divorce petition costs £345, obtaining a decree absolute costs £45 and, where necessary, swearing what is called a 'Special Procedure Affidavit' will cost an additional £7.
The standard time to obtain an undefended divorce is usually between three and six months. For more information on the process of divorce, please refer to our free guide.
To find out more about beginning the process of divorce and to book your free initial consultation, please contact us.
Arranging your finances
As this is where divorce becomes most complex, timely legal advice is essential. During your free initial consultation, we can advise you on financial issues. We will give you professional opinion on what should happen to the matrimonial home, your pensions and the other investments that you and your partner own. To discuss the way forward in your particular circumstances, please contact us. We will work with you for as long as necessary to make sure that your interests are protected.
The children of the family
At Hedleys-Law, we have considerable experience in dealing with residence and contact issues, both for parents and grandparents. After separation, agreeing upon the arrangements for the children of the family can often become contentious. Our approach is to negotiate matters in a sensitive and constructive manner; we always seek to resolve difficulties in the best interests of the child, with or without court proceedings.
Whatever your circumstances, whether your negotiations are in their infancy or you already have an agreement which simply needs to be codified, we can help you. Please contact us so that we can advise you as to the most appropriate course of action.
Pre-Nuptial agreements
Pre-Nuptial agreements are not currently binding on the courts, but they are taken into consideration and carry more and more weight with the courts. Given that one in three marriages in the UK now ends in divorce, it may be worthwhile for you to consider drafting a pre-nuptial agreement to safeguard your assets in the future. A little planning at the beginning of a relationship can save a great deal of misunderstanding and acrimony at the end.
To find out what a pre-nuptial agreement involves and consider your options for drafting one, please contact us.
Cohabitation agreements
Where couples are not married, considerable financial problems can arise when they separate. If this is the situation that you find yourself in, you may find that an agreement with your ex-partner to address these issues is advisable. Please contact us if you would like to consider this further.