Family Law

The family law team at Walker & Sharpe are available to guide and support you through separation, divorce, residence and contact issues relating to children, and all other aspects of family law.

We offer practical and straightforward advice tailored to you, in order to achieve the best possible outcome for you and your family, at what is often a difficult time.

We know that dealing with a family breakdown can be distressing, particularly when children are involved, and are on hand to offer a sympathetic ear and bespoke advice.

Divorce/ Dissolution of Civil Partnership

At Walker & Sharpe, we understand that the decision to end your marriage or civil partnership is one of the toughest you will ever make. Our knowledgeable team are on hand to guide you through the divorce/dissolution process step-by-step, and assist you to resolve any financial and property matters, or issues relating to children.

Separation

We can assist you with planning for and dealing with all aspects of separation, including the negotiation and preparation of separation agreements, and resolving financial issues after separation. The law relating to separations can be complex and confusing – we aim to make it as clear and straightforward as possible for our clients.

Pre and post-nuptial agreements

While no-one embarks upon a relationship believing it will come to an end, in reality many relationships naturally break down over time. Written agreements can prevent future uncertainty and conflict, and protect pre-marital assets. Walker & Sharpe can negotiate and prepare written agreements on your behalf at any stage of your relationship.

Child residence and contact

Deciding with whom your children will live following separation, and what contact they will have with their non-resident parent, is often the paramount issue for our clients following separation. Separation is often a distressing time for children, and it is crucial that residence and contact issues are resolved quickly and in the best interests of the children. Our family law team are on hand to offer advice sensitively and objectively, with the aim of resolving the family’s long-term future arrangements quickly and amicably.

Sometimes litigation is unavoidable, and our team of experienced family court practitioners will ensure the best interests of your child are represented and your voice is heard.

Protective measures

Sometimes our clients require protection from abuse following the breakdown of a relationship. Our family law team can advise you regarding the range of protective measures available, including interdicts and non-harassment orders, and are experienced both at obtaining such orders from the court and defending such actions.

Referrals to the Children’s Panel

Young people and children are sometimes asked to attend a Children’s Hearing with their family or carers to try and resolve difficulties they may be experiencing in their lives. Often, Social Work will be involved with the family. We understand that this can be a particularly difficult time, and can offer advice and assistance with all aspects of Children’s Hearings, including representation for both children and parents at Panel Hearings.

Adoption

Our family law team have extensive experience assisting families who are in the process of adopting a child. From step-parent adoption to the adoption of children within the care of the Local Authority, Walker & Sharpe can assist you throughout your adoption journey.

How much will it cost?

We appreciate that uncertainty regarding legal fees can cause additional worry at an often stressful time. We are honest and upfront with our clients about our fees from the outset. Every case is different, and it is often impossible to know what work will be required to give an accurate estimate of costs.

We do offer packaged fees for certain services, such as undefended divorces and we are happy to discuss fee arrangements on an individual basis. We also offer Civil Legal Aid to clients who are eligible.

For more information about any of our family law services and how we can help you, please get in touch.