At Specters, we recognise that divorce can be an emotional and stressful experience, and that no two divorces are the same.
Divorce & Family Services
Navigating family law matters, particularly divorce, can be one of the most challenging experiences in life.
Divorce is a significant life event that requires careful consideration and expert legal advice. Whether you’re initiating the process or responding to a divorce petition, it’s essential to understand your rights and obligations. We provide comprehensive legal services tailored to your unique circumstances, from the initial filing to the final settlement.
Our experienced solicitors work diligently to protect your interests, whether that involves securing a fair financial settlement, negotiating child custody arrangements, or addressing spousal maintenance. At Specters, we understand the emotional and legal complexities that accompany such decisions, and we are here to provide the support and guidance you need every step of the way. Our dedicated team of family law specialists is committed to helping you achieve the best possible outcome, whether you’re facing a straightforward separation or a complex, high-stakes divorce.
Getting a divorce
Divorce is a life-altering decision that involves both emotional and legal complexities. Whether it’s a mutual decision or the result of irreconcilable differences, understanding the divorce process is essential to protecting your interests and moving forward with confidence.
The divorce process typically begins with the filing of a petition for divorce, which outlines the grounds for seeking the dissolution of the marriage. Common grounds for divorce can vary but generally include:
- Irreconcilable Differences
- Adultery
- Abandonment or Desertion
- Cruelty or Abuse
- Separation for a Defined Period
Once the grounds for divorce have been established, we help you navigate the next steps, which may involve negotiating terms for property division, child custody, spousal support, and more. Our goal is to facilitate a smooth and fair resolution, whether through mediation, collaborative negotiations, or litigation if necessary.
At Specters, we are committed to providing compassionate, personalised support throughout your divorce, ensuring that your rights are protected and your future is secured.
Unmarried couple separation
The end of a relationship is always a delicate and emotional experience, and for unmarried couples, separating can present unique challenges. While there may not be the formal legal process of divorce, the complexities of disentangling shared lives, especially for couples with significant assets or children, can feel overwhelming.
At Specters, we understand that every separation is unique, requiring thoughtful care, discretion, and expert guidance to safeguard your emotional and financial well-being. Our specialised services are designed to help individuals navigate the legal, financial, and personal aspects of separation with clarity and confidence, ensuring that your interests are protected as you transition to the next phase of your life.
To help you take the first step, we offer an initial consultation free of charge to discuss your separation. During this consultation, we will listen to your concerns, assess your situation, and provide you with an understanding of your options moving forward.
This is an opportunity for you to get to know our team and how we can support you, ensuring that you make informed decisions about your future with confidence and clarity.
We specialise in a variety of family law matters
Annulment
Annulment
Whether it’s a brief misunderstanding or a more complex issue, the implications of an annulment can be profound.
Children Matters
Children matters
If it’s a simple arrangement or a more contentious dispute, the impact of separation on children can be far-reaching.
Financial Settlements
Financial Settlements
If it’s a straightforward division or a more intricate negotiation, the outcome of a financial settlement can have lasting effects.
International Divorce
International Divorce
Whether it’s a cross-border agreement or a complex legal battle, the challenges of an international divorce can be significant.
Nuptial Agreements
Our family law solicitors
Divorce FAQs
Do I need a solicitor for my divorce?
While it’s technically possible to represent yourself in a divorce, having a solicitor is highly recommended, especially when dealing with complex issues such as property division, child custody, spousal support, and significant assets.
Our experienced team ensures that your rights and interests are protected throughout the process.
Can we resolve our divorce outside of court?
Yes, many couples choose to resolve their divorce through alternative dispute resolution methods such as mediation or collaborative divorce. These methods allow for a more amicable process, are often less expensive, and give both parties more control over the final outcome.
What is a ‘no-fault’ divorce?
As of April 2022, the UK introduced a no-fault divorce system. This allows couples to divorce without having to assign blame or provide specific reasons, making the process less contentious. Couples can now file jointly or individually without needing to prove fault such as adultery or unreasonable behaviour.
Can I get divorced if my spouse refuses to sign the paperwork?
Under the no-fault divorce system, one spouse can apply for a divorce without the other’s consent. The process can still proceed even if the other spouse does not agree or participate, though this may delay proceedings slightly.
Unmarried Couples/ Cohabitating Couples FAQs
Do unmarried couples have the same legal rights as married couples?
No, in the UK, unmarried couples do not have the same legal rights as married couples or those in civil partnerships, even if they’ve lived together for a long time. There is no such thing as “common-law marriage” in UK law, meaning that cohabiting couples are treated differently in terms of property rights, inheritance, and financial claims.
How are assets divided when cohabiting couples separate?
For unmarried couples, dividing assets can be more complicated because the division is based on who legally owns each asset.
Jointly owned assets are typically shared, but assets owned solely by one partner remain theirs unless proven otherwise (e.g., significant contributions were made by the other partner). In cases of dispute, courts may look at contributions and agreements made during the relationship.
What is a Cohabitation Agreement, and do we need one?
A Cohabitation Agreement is a legally binding document that unmarried couples can use to define their financial and property rights while living together and in the event of a separation. It can cover aspects like ownership of property, division of assets, financial responsibilities, and arrangements for children. While not required, it’s highly recommended to avoid disputes later on.
Can I claim financial support from my ex-partner if we weren’t married?
In the UK, cohabiting couples do not have an automatic right to financial support (spousal maintenance) after separation, unlike married couples. However, if you have children together, the primary caregiver may be entitled to child maintenance from the other parent, but not support for themselves.
