Family Law

Experienced Family Law Solicitors, Warrington

Whether married, cohabiting or separated, our experienced family solicitors offer help and advice on all areas of family law from problems to family breakdown. We aim to offer all our expertise built up over three decades.

As members of Resolution, a law society-approved organisation of family law specialists, we strive to deal with all matters amicably whilst also ensuring your full protection under the law. We also have accredited specialists on the Law Society Family Law Panel.

For family law advice tailored to your situation, get in touch with our expert solicitors today.

Divorce

All divorce is based on the irretrievable breakdown of the marriage but in April 2022 the law changed to do away with the 5 supporting facts and instead is now a no fault-based process.

A divorce application can be made by one or both parties to a marriage and once issued by the court there is a 20 week period before you can apply for a Conditional Order (formerly Decree Nisi). During that window the court expects couples to negotiate a financial settlement and any arrangements for children of the family. Once a Conditional Order has been issued there is a further cooling-off period before the Final Order is then made.

Finances

Most separations or divorces involve financial assets, be it the home, savings or pensions etc. There might be millions of pounds at stake, or just a few hundred.

In looking to address finance issues at marriage or relationship breakdown we believe there are essentially three options open to you.

• You and your partner meet with a mediator to resolve the issues.

• You can agree with your spouse either directly and/or with the help of your lawyer.

• You can invite the courts to decide how your assets should be divided and whether maintenance should be paid.

Our team at Fiona Bruce solicitors can go through each of these options with you in detail to help find the best solution.
 

Children

Whether you are a mother, father, grand parent, other relative or child we can offer advice and help with all aspects of children disputes. This covers contact (access), residence (custody), injunctions, overseas custody disputes and parental responsibility.

Sometimes the local authority become involved in disputes over children, perhaps through allegations of mistreatment or abandonment. It is vital that you get the right help through these often complicated and emotional situations. As members of the Children Panel, Family Law panel and Resolution, you can be assured of our specialist help.

Mediation

Mediation can be an effective way for separating couples or parents in dispute over contact or residence to resolve their differences. Family mediation may help you resolve these matters or at least help you narrow the issues of dispute.

Mediation can often be the least expensive remedy for you. It can also help your marriage end more amicably, meaning you may end the relationship with better prospects of any agreements working effectively. With mediation you can still benefit from our expert advice as you go through the process. We can also limit the stress you may have by arranging mediation for you with local approved mediators. Feel free to contact us if you would like any more information on approved mediation services.
 

Domestic Violence

We understand the package of support you require, and that urgency is often needed. We not only provide legal protection through the court – we also listen and help, and often refer to other organisations to work alongside you.

You have the right to live free from fear of violence or intimidation. We know that speaking to a solicitor can be daunting, but we aim to make it as easy as possible for you. 
 

Cohabitation

Whether married or not, separation can be a very stressful and difficult time. The law in relation to co-habitees is not the same as for married couples. We can advise on all aspects of the law, and with over 30 years’ experience within the family team, you can be assured of a thorough and efficient service.

Pre and Post Nuptial Agreements

Following the landmark decision in the case of Radmacher v Granatino in 2010, significant weight has been given to prenuptial agreements 

Prenuptial agreements are still not legally enforceable in England and Wales but increasing numbers of clients express an interest in these agreements, seeing the benefits they can provide by helping to minimise or remove acrimonious and sometimes expensive court proceedings.

We understand the importance of you having confidence in our up to date knowledge of the law, particularly in areas of significant specialism such as this. Our dedicated family lawyers, supported by extensive resources and experience will ensure that you receive best advice, every time.

Family law

With over 30 years of experience in family law, we’re able to advise on a range of complex scenarios, including…

• big money relationships / no money relationships

• complex child cases involving the local authority

• parental disputes over where children live and when they see the other parent

• harassment / severe domestic violence 

We’re here to help you

If you require professional help or advice with any family law matter, please feel free to send us an enquiry by calling 01925 263 273, or emailing rbruce@fionabruce.co.uk.