Divorce & Separation

Divorce can be one of life’s most stressful experiences, we aim to make the process as smooth as possible for both parties

The importance of taking professional legal advice when divorcing or dissolving a civil partnership cannot be underestimated. The process is straightforward to us but can be very confusing if you are not legally trained. Often the procedure can be made more complicated than necessary when people try to deal with it themselves.

Our video explains the benefits of using a solicitor for divorce and separation matters.

We can talk through your options before you make any decisions

Deciding whether to divorce, separate or dissolve a civil partnership may be one of the hardest decisions you will ever have to make. It affects not only you and your partner, but the people around you too, and in particular any children you might have. It can also change your financial arrangements and make it difficult to plan for the immediate future.

We offer a confidential consultation with a specialist lawyer, so that you can make that critical decision with a complete understanding of all the implications. In our experience, fully understanding the situation can reduce feelings of anxiety and help you to feel more confident about the future.

What is No Fault divorce?

The Divorce, Dissolution and Separation Act 2020, came into effect in April 2022, making No Fault divorce the new divorce law. This has replaced the necessity to prove grounds for divorce or the dissolution of a civil partnership. No Fault divorce simplifies the process, allowing couples to state that the marriage has irretrievably broken down, without having to produce any evidence of bad behaviour.

For the first time people will be able to apply jointly, as well as solely, for divorce or dissolution, and the law has removed the ability to defend the decision to divorce or end a civil partnership, meaning the other party will not be able to dispute whether the marriage has broken down. It is hoped that this will reduce the scope for added hostility, making it easier for couples to focus on how they divide their assets and most importantly, the care of any children.

Our video explains the No Fault divorce process.

Our divorce costs are fixed

Tisshaws Family Law Solicitors offer a fixed fee divorce for £450 plus VAT (£540 inclusive), where the divorce is uncontested. This includes preparation of the Divorce Petition, the supporting documentation for the court and dealing with each step of the divorce procedure. In addition to this you will have to pay a Court Fee (currently £592).

Our video explains the time and costs involved in the divorce process.

What happens if we’re not married but decide to separate?

It is a common myth that after a certain period of time, cohabiting couples become ‘common law’ spouses, enjoying the same rights and legal protection of married couples. However, this is not the case. In the eyes of the law, whether you’ve lived with a partner for one or twenty years you are not legally recognised as a couple.

Consequently, if the relationship breaks down or one partner dies, the remaining partner is legally vulnerable when it comes to sorting out finances, property and the arrangements for any children you share together. Fortunately, there are legal steps cohabiting couples can take to ensure they both have a level of legal protection.

Our video explains how not being married impacts the separation process.

We offer a personalised service with your own dedicated lawyer

All our lawyers are highly experienced, very approachable and used to dealing with difficult situations compassionately. Your specific lawyer will deal with you and your case throughout the process and you can contact them directly by telephone and email if you have any questions you need to ask or if you wish to discuss matters. We are proud that the majority of our work comes from clients who have recommended us personally, because of the high-quality service we provide.

Why not book a consultation with us to discuss your options?

If you would like legal advice on divorce, separation, dissolution of a civil partnership or any other family matters, please contact us.

We offer an initial no obligation one-hour appointment for just £100 (Incl. VAT), so you can find out about the options for your specific circumstances.

Contact Us

Book a consultation to discuss your options –
Only £100 (Incl. VAT)

We know how difficult divorce and separation can be, so we offer an initial one hour fixed fee consultation with a fully qualified lawyer, to help you make an informed decision about how to proceed.

To book, please call 01444 472700 or complete the quick contact form.

Testimonials

- Mrs E, Aug 2022
On a more personal note, I would like to thank you so much for your kindness, support and measured professionalism throughout what turned into an extremely long and traumatically complex process. I have no doubt it would have been considerably more difficult for me without your calm guidance and understanding throughout.
- Ms W, June 2022
Thank you for your excellent service.
- Mr T, May 22
I'd like to take this opportunity to say how grateful I am for all the help you gave me over the last few years. As hard as it was at times, having someone who knew their job and could deal with all of the different aspects of the case to such a high standard certainly made it easier.
- Mrs W, March 22
I always felt able to ask Hana anything relating to the paperwork and always received a prompt response. I really appreciated how processes were explained and detailed to me in a way that I could understand. This gave me reassurance at times when I felt unsure of what was next and what needed doing.
- Mr S, Feb 22
Very grateful to Lidia who was excellent. She felt like a friend during this, and is very intelligent and skilled. I was anxious that my divorce wouldn’t turn into an expensive battle, and Lidia’s calm, factual advice ensured this. I will have no hesitation in recommending her, and Tisshaws to friends and colleagues.
- Mr W, Dec 2021
Many thanks Verity for your professional help in this process I have really found this whole experience very daunting so I really appreciate your understanding many thanks again!