Separation

Although your relationship may have broken down, divorce is not the only option. While for the majority of couples a divorce is the sensible way to formalise their separation, many decide not to divorce immediately or at all.

Our advice is sensitive and practical to help you to understand the legal consequences of your separation. We will explain the options available to you so that you understand your choices and the ramifications.  We work collaboratively with you to advise a strategy to protect your interests and to minimise the distress that the end of a relationship can bring.

There are often good reasons not to divorce, for example: strongly held religious beliefs, tax planning issues, while others may be unable to divorce immediately because they have not been married for 12 months. We also recognise that a couple may not feel ready to take that final step.

When considering whether to divorce or separate, our team of specialist lawyers will discuss with you the advantages and disadvantages of each option.  We will listen to your priorities and wishes, and give you legal and practical advice to equip you through a relationship breakdown.

If you have children, we will give you experienced and tailored advice in relation to any issues or disputes that arise.

If you do not want to divorce, but wish to separate your finances, we can help you to agree the terms of a separation agreement setting out the agreed division of the family’s assets at the time of separation. We can also obtain a judicial separation from the court which, although bringing to an end your obligations as a spouse, does not terminate the marriage.

We can advise you on all aspects of your separation from your partner, including:

• Divorce
• Financial support
• Property ownership disputes (between cohabitants)
• The children
• Cohabitation agreements
• Domestic abuse and harassment
• Reputation management and privacy