Divorce, custody and maintenance
Family
Almost nobody arrives here with a legal question. They arrive with practical ones: who the children stay with, what happens to the flat, how long this will take. This page explains the procedure; the rest is what the first meeting is for.
What people type into the search box
- divorce lawyer near me
- how much does an uncontested divorce cost
- changing a child maintenance order
These are the actual searches people arrive with. They are written as they are typed, not as a textbook would name them.
What it covers
- Divorce and separation, by agreement or contested
- Arrangements for children: custody, contact and maintenance
- Varying arrangements when income or address changes
- Winding up the matrimonial property regime
What to bring to the first meeting
- ID document for both parties
- Family book or the children's birth certificates
- Last three payslips and the latest tax return
- Deed or tenancy agreement for the home and mortgage statements
If something is missing, it is dealt with in the meeting. Turning up without one document does not waste the appointment.
What happens next
- 1
First meeting
The situation is put in order, the urgent is separated from what can wait, and the available routes are explained — including the ones that stay out of court.
- 2
Agreement or petition
Where there is agreement, a settlement agreement is drafted. Where there isn't, a petition is prepared with the measures sought and the evidence behind them.
- 3
Proceedings and decision
The court notifies the other party and lists a hearing in contested matters. Once the decision is issued, it is explained what it requires of each party and what can be done if it isn't complied with.
Timescales
An uncontested divorce usually resolves in a few months; a contested one depends on the workload of the court hearing it. Any timescale here is indicative: the firm does not set it.
How it is charged
Fixed fee in stages for uncontested matters: the agreement first, the court ratification after. In contested matters, a payment on account when the petition is filed and the rest in stages.
What is not included: Court fees, court agents and expert reports are not included. They are set out in writing before anything starts.
This page describes the procedure in general terms. It is not legal advice and it does not replace a consultation: every matter turns on its own facts and dates.
Other areas
About this site
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