Divorce Solicitors

Are you getting divorced? At First Law Solicitors, our Divorce Law Solicitors will give you the advice you need to protect your interests and move towards a positive future.

Going through a divorce is a stressful and emotional time. You need someone by your side who can advise you on the practical aspects of the divorce process and who will protect your interests when it comes to the financial settlement. It can be extremely difficult to make decisions when you are under stress. We will examine your situation pragmatically and, in a sensitive manner, guide you on the choices you must make to protect the interests of you and your children.

Although we try to resolve divorce-related disputes through negotiation and/or mediation, sometimes court action is required. You can be confident that we will work hard and fast to ensure your case is presented credibly and no stone will be left unturned when it comes to seeking a positive result.

What do I need to do to apply for a divorce in England and Wales?
Divorce in England and Wales is governed by the Divorce, Dissolution and Separation Act (DDSA) 2020. Under the DDSA 2020, you can apply for a divorce alone or make a joint application with your spouse. You only have to say that the marriage has irretrievably broken down. There is not longer a requirement to provide ‘grounds’ to prove this such as adultery or unreasonable behaviour.

What is a Conditional Divorce Order and a Final Divorce Order?
A Conditional Divorce Order (formally called a Decree Nisi) is a provisional approval of your divorce. You must wait a minimum of 20 weeks before you can apply for a Conditional Divorce Order. This will not end your marriage. Six weeks and one day after you have been granted a Conditional Divorce Order, you may apply for a Final Divorce Order. Once the Court grants this, you are officially divorced and are free to remarry if you wish.

How First Law Solicitors can help

Help you understand the divorce process
Knowledge is power. We understand that you will be feeling vulnerable and uncertain about your future. Our Divorce Law Solicitors will explain the divorce process to you, ensuring you understand every step. This will give you confidence when it comes to making choices concerning your future.

Advise you on making arrangements for your children
You will need to show the Family Court Judge that you and your spouse have made suitable arrangements for your children before they will grant the Final Divorce Order. We will help you work out who your children will primarily live with and when the other parent has contact. If a dispute develops, we will try to resolve it through mediation rather than going to court.

Guide you on working out a fair financial settlement
Our Divorce Solicitors understand that alongside arrangements for your children, money will be your main concern. If possible, we will facilitate financial settlement talks between you and your spouse outside of court. Once an agreement is reached, we will draft a Consent Order to make the settlement legally binding.

Prepare you for a Mediation Information and Assessment Meeting (MIAM)
Unless you are exempt, you will be required to attend a MIAM to establish whether your family law dispute can be resolved through mediation. Our team will provide you with the advice and support you need to ensure you are fully prepared for this meeting.

Advise and represent you in family law court proceedings
If going to court proves inevitable, we will prepare your case meticulously, providing you with the advice and representation you need to achieve the result you want. You can trust that we have the experience, expertise, and tenacity required to move matters forward and get results.

What our clients say

“They are extremely friendly and professional in dealing with their clients. My experience with them is second to none. They are the best solicitor in the Northwest.”

Please fill in our contact form or call us on +44 161 224 4066 to discuss your divorce or family law matter.