Category: News

Family law concept. Wooden dolls family with gavel isolated on white background.

What is the Difference Between an Order and an Undertaking in Family Law?

Posted on by Liza Chacko

In family law, it is sometimes necessary for the court to take action to regulate a person’s behaviour – whether that’s to compel them to act or refrain from acting in a certain way.

To achieve this, the court relies on two key mechanisms: orders and undertakings. While the two are very similar, there are some differences in how they are issued and the consequences of breaching them.

In this article, we’ll define both an order and an undertaking in family law and explain the main differences between the two.

What is an order in family law?

In family law, an order is a ruling issued by a judge. Orders usually require an individual to do or refrain from doing a specific action.

Court orders are legally binding and enforceable by law, meaning that it is a criminal offence to breach one. Those found guilty of breaching a court order could find themselves facing arrest and prosecution.

Examples of family law orders include:

  • Non-molestation orders: Protects an individual from harassment or abuse by prohibiting certain behaviours.
  • Occupation orders: Determines who can live in the family home or enter the surrounding area. Typically used to ensure the safety of individuals during domestic violence cases.
  • Child arrangement orders: Specifies where a child will live and how much time they will spend with each parent.
  • Prohibited steps orders: Prevents a parent from taking certain actions without the court’s consent (e.g. Relocating a child to another country).
  • Financial orders: Stipulates how assets, spousal and child maintenance will be divided following a divorce or separation.
  • Restraining orders: Prevents a person from contacting or approaching another individual.

What is an undertaking in family law?

So, what is an undertaking?

An undertaking in law, is a voluntary promise made to the court by an individual committing to act or abstain from acting in a certain way. Undertakings are often made during legal proceedings concerning domestic violence, child custody, and divorce.

You may be wondering, if it’s a voluntary promise, is an undertaking legally binding? The answer is yes, undertakings are legally binding. However, breaching one is not a criminal offence, and a person cannot be arrested for it.

Examples of the types of undertakings that are made in family law include:

  • Not to contact a former partner.
  • To vacate the family home by a certain date.
  • To comply with child arrangements.
  • To pay financial support.
  • Not to take a child abroad without court permission.

What is the difference between an order and an undertaking?

Court orders and undertakings are both legally binding, are used in similar circumstances, and have similar effects. The difference between the two lies in how they are issued and the consequences of breaching them.

When an order is issued, it is imposed by the court without an individual’s consent. In comparison, an undertaking is made to the court voluntarily by an individual.

If an individual breaches an order that has been imposed on them by the court, it is a criminal offence, and they risk arrest and prosecution. In contrast, breaching an undertaking is not a criminal offence, and you cannot be arrested for it. However, there are still consequences for being in breach of an undertaking. Individuals who do so could be fined or receive a prison sentence for contempt of court.

Navigating court orders and undertakings with Mark Reynolds Solicitors

At Mark Reynolds Solicitors, our team of specialist family law solicitors have helped countless families in the North West to resolve disputes amicably.

If you need legal support or advice regarding obtaining a family law court order or undertaking, or advice on any family law matter, contact us today for a free consultation.

UK divorce process

How to Start Divorce Proceedings in the UK 

Posted on by Liza Chacko

Getting a divorce marks the end of one chapter in your life and the dawn of a new one.

Everyone feels differently about turning the page and starting afresh. Some people may be excited for a new start, whilst others may feel fear, sadness, or a profound sense of loss. Whatever you feel is valid, it’s important to give yourself time and space to get to grips with the new direction your life is taking.

Starting divorce proceedings is the first step towards your new future. It’s a big step to take and one that can seem complex at first. However, with the right advice and support, it needn’t be overwhelming.

Here at Mark Reynolds Family Law Solicitors, we understand that this is a challenging time, and we’re here to make the divorce process as smooth and straightforward as possible.

We’ve created this useful guide to the UK divorce process to provide practical support every step of the way. If you need any further help or advice with the process of divorce in England, don’t hesitate to get in touch with our team of expert divorce solicitors, and we’ll be happy to help.

How does the divorce process work in the UK?

So, how does divorce work?

Divorce is a legal process that formally ends a marriage after it has irretrievably broken down.

It’s important to note that divorce laws in Scotland and Northern Ireland differ slightly, so it’s advisable to seek advice specific to your location if you’re outside England and Wales.

In England and Wales, you must file for a divorce and then follow a set legal process to obtain a final order (decree absolute), which will finalise your divorce.

You can only get a divorce after you have been married for at least one year. If you haven’t yet been married for a year, you will need to apply for a judicial separation instead.

The key stages of divorce include filing a divorce application, securing necessary court orders, and making financial or childcare arrangements.

The new divorce process explained

In 2022, the divorce process in England and Wales became a lot simpler due to the introduction of no-fault divorces.

Since no-fault divorces were introduced, couples are no longer required to prove blame or fault to get a divorce. Now that there is no need to provide a specific reason for the breakdown of a marriage, the process instead focuses on reaching a fair outcome and formally ending the relationship.

The new system has helped to reduce conflict and makes divorce proceedings more straightforward.

The divorce process UK step-by-step guide

If you’re wondering how to start divorce proceedings, we’ve created a step-by-step guide to help you through the process and let you know what to expect. The new system makes divorce primarily an administrative process. The divorce timeline can be roughly divided into the following eight stages.

  1. Start a divorce application

You can either make a joint application for divorce or apply on your own. The application can be made online through the .gov website or by post and costs £593. The fee is usually paid by the person making the application.

  • Acknowledgement of service

After you submit your application, it is sent to the court. If you applied for the divorce on your own, your partner is then sent a copy of the divorce papers and an acknowledgement of service (AOS). They then have 14 days to respond to the notice by either accepting or disputing the application.

When the divorce proceedings start, a mandatory 20-week reflection period begins. This period gives the couple time to reflect on whether divorce is definitely what they want, and if so, agree on practical arrangements about how assets will be divided and children will be cared for.

  • Application for a conditional order

After 20 weeks have passed, you can apply for a conditional order (previously known as a Decree Nisi). A conditional order is a document that confirms that the court has granted you permission to divorce. If you made your divorce application online, you can apply for a conditional order online too.

  • The court reviews your application

The court will now review your application to ensure that all requirements have been met; this step can take several weeks.

  • The court grants a conditional order

If the court finds no reason to prevent the divorce, it will then send you a conditional order certificate. The certificate will state the time and date that you’ll be granted a conditional order. After the conditional order has been granted, a 43-day (6 weeks and 1 day) cooling-off period begins.

  • Application for a financial order

Once you have your conditional order, you can apply to the court to approve your financial order. A financial order is a legal document that lays out how your money and other marital assets are to be split and the cost of child maintenance. This stage is not mandatory but is highly recommended as it helps to ensure clarity and prevent future disputes.

  • Application for final order

Once the 6-week and 1-day cooling-off period has passed, you can apply for the final order (decree absolute). This final step usually only takes 24-48 hours to complete.

  • Court approves final order

The court will now check that the time limits have been met and that there are no other reasons not to grant the divorce. Once the final order has been approved, you will both be sent official documents confirming that your marriage has been legally dissolved. You are now legally divorced and free to marry again if you wish.

Sorting your finances following a divorce

One of the most important aspects of getting a divorce is reaching an agreement about how financial matters will be resolved and assets split. This is usually done using a legally binding agreement to prevent disputes and financial claims in the future.

The first step is to sit down and identify assets, debts, and ongoing financial responsibilities. An agreement must then be reached about how assets and debts will be split and ongoing financial responsibilities like spousal or child maintenance will be covered. This can either be done by direct negotiation or with the help of mediation or solicitors.

If an agreement cannot be reached, then a court application may be necessary, where a judge makes the final decision. It is usually preferable to decide between yourselves rather than letting it go to court, as court proceedings can be time-consuming, costly, and emotionally draining for both parties. Additionally, reaching an agreement together gives you more control over the outcome.

Common questions about getting divorced

How long does the process take?

On average, you can expect getting a divorce to take 6 – 12 months, depending on how long it takes for an agreement to be reached and how complex your case is.

Can my spouse prevent divorce proceedings from going ahead?

Although it is possible to dispute a divorce application, one can only be stopped for one of the following three valid reasons:

  • The marriage or civil partnership was never valid  
  • You have already ended your marriage or civil partnership through divorce dissolution 
  • The court does not have the legal jurisdiction to consider the divorce 

You cannot prevent a divorce from going through simply because you don’t want to get divorced.

What information do I need to make an application for divorce?

You will need the following information to complete a divorce application.

  • Your full name and address.
  • Your spouse’s full name and address.
  • Your original marriage certificate or a certified copy.
  • Proof of your name change if you’ve changed it since getting married.

Can I get help paying the divorce application fee?

You may be eligible for help paying the divorce application fee if you are on benefits or have a low income.

What happens if my spouse doesn’t respond to the divorce application?

If your spouse doesn’t respond to the divorce application within the required time frame, you can still proceed by applying to the court for a default divorce. This involves proving that they have received the documents and asking the court to move forward without their input.

Do I need to go to court to get divorced?

You do not usually need to go to court to get a divorce. However, you may need to do so if you’re unable to agree on financial or childcare arrangements.

Get help applying for a divorce

Getting a divorce can be an emotionally fraught process, which is why many people choose to use the services of a family law specialist like Mark Reynolds, Divorce Solicitors Liverpool, to help guide them through the divorce procedure.

Our friendly and experienced team is here to provide practical advice and compassionate support to make the divorce process as simple and straightforward as possible.

We will take care of the legal and administrative side of the process and can also help you negotiate with your spouse to reach a fair financial settlement and agree on childcare arrangements. To learn more about our services and how we can help you apply for a divorce, contact any of our offices by calling 0800 002 9577 or filling out the contact form on the right to arrange a free, no-obligation initial consultation.

grandparents with their grandchildren sitting on a bench in a park

Are in-laws considered family?

Posted on by Mark Reynolds

Love them or hate them, the in-laws are often an important part of the family dynamic, especially when children are involved.

All families and family dynamics are unique, and where some families are tight-knit, others don’t always see eye to eye.

When it comes to family law issues, you may wonder, ‘Are in-laws considered family? And if so, are they immediate or extended family? And what legal rights do they have? This blog will explain all.

Are in-laws considered extended family?

Yes, usually, your in-laws (that’s your spouse’s immediate family) are considered to be part of your extended family rather than your immediate family.

Extended family refers to family members who are more distant or indirect. Other members of your extended family include your grandparents, aunts and uncles, nieces and nephews, and cousins.

Are parents-in-law immediate family?

No. Immediate family usually refers to your closest family members. That’s those that you are directly connected to by blood, marriage, or adoption. Generally, in UK law, your immediate family includes your parents, siblings, children, and spouse or civil partner – not your parents-in-law.

Is a sister-in-law considered immediate family?

No. If we look at the previous definitions. Your sister-in-law is an indirect relative and so would be considered part of your extended family rather than your immediate family.

What rights do extended family members have in family law?

In most cases, immediate family members have more automatic legal rights than extended family members when it comes to family law issues.

For example, grandparents and in-laws do not have an automatic right to contact with a child if the child’s parents deny access. However, they may ask the court for permission to apply for contact.

Similarly, extended family members may be able to apply for a child to be placed in their care or to adopt or become the special guardian of a child if their parents can no longer care for them.

Why choose Mark Reynolds Solicitors for Family Law issues?

At Mark Reynolds Solicitors, our team of specialist family law solicitors have helped countless families in the North West to navigate family law issues.

Whether you require help gaining contact with a grandchild or wish to apply for parental responsibility or special guardianship over a child, our team of family law solicitors are here to help.

We understand that family law issues can be extremely sensitive matters and treat every case with the care, attention, and discretion that it deserves.

For legal advice or family mediation services, contact us today to learn more about our family law services.

What is a Section 8 order in family law?

Posted on by Mark Reynolds

Many people are curious about family law section 8 because they directly impact child welfare, offering more information about living arrangements and parental responsibilities. Those who aren’t in the know about this order may ask ‘what is a section 8 order in family law?’

What is Section 8 of the Children and Families Act 2014?

Section 8 of the Children and Families Act 2014 amends the Children Act 1989 to include orders such as Child Arrangement Orders, Prohibited Steps Orders, and Specific Issue Orders. Section 8 of the Children and Families Act 2014 explains how children in local authority care should stay in touch with their families or important people. It sets the rules and responsibilities for keeping these connections while the children are in care.

What is a Section 8 court order?

A Section 8 court order will decide who a child will live with or see, stop certain actions without court approval, and settle disputes about the child’s upbringing. They help parents resolve conflicts relating to matters such as education and medical care. The main goal is to make sure the child’s well-being is the top priority in legal decisions.

Who is entitled to apply for a Section 8 order?

Those entitled to apply for a Section 8 order include parents, guardians, and individuals with parental responsibility. This typically includes mothers, married fathers, and others who have acquired parental responsibility through legal means. Additionally, individuals holding a residence order or those with the consent of someone with a residence order can apply directly. Others may need to seek the court’s permission before applying.

How long does a Section 8 order last?

The length of a Section 8 order depends on the type of order and the situation. Usually, these orders last until the child turns 16, or sometimes 18. However, the court can decide on different time limits based on what the child needs and the specifics of the order. In cases like these, it is best to contact legal professionals to get more information on your personal situation and circumstances.

What is a Cafcass report?

A Cafcass report, also called a Section 7 report, is a detailed document made by the Children and Family Court Advisory and Support Service (Cafcass) for Section 8 orders. The court asks for this report to look into the child’s well-being. It includes details about the child’s situation, the parents’ views, and other important background information. The Cafcass officer will suggest to the court what orders would be best for the child.

Contact Mark Reynolds Solicitors today

At Mark Reynolds Solicitors, we help with family law issues by providing expert legal advice and representation. We guide you through the process, from collecting evidence to presenting your case in court.

If you need legal advice, help with applications, gathering evidence, or court representation, contact us today. For more information or to discuss your case, call us at 0800 002 9577 or visit our website.

What is an occupation order in family law?

Posted on by Mark Reynolds

People who find themselves in situations where they need legal protection or clarification around living arrangements may not know where to turn to. In cases like these, individuals may find themselves asking ‘what is an occupation order in family law?’

Why would someone get an occupation order?

Individuals may get an occupation order if their safety is compromised in cases such as domestic abuse or violence. A family law occupation order can safeguard the victim by getting the abuser away from the home.

An occupation order can also be used in circumstances where people living in a home can’t agree on who should live in the property, as it offers clarity and legal support. For example, it can contain details on who exactly is allowed to live in specific areas of the property and detail the conditions of this arrangement.

When the welfare of children is brought into the equation, an occupation order can help them have secure and safe living conditions.

An occupation order is only permitted when the court comes to an agreement by weighing up relevant factors such as the housing needs and behaviour of each person, including if these individuals pose a danger to the applicant or any children if the order isn’t allowed.

What is an occupation order?

An occupation order is defined as a legal measure that’s used to clarify who can live in a property, usually in cases of domestic abuse or disputes over who should live in the property.

According to the Family Law Act 1996, an occupation order has the potential to enforce the right to remain in the property, exclude someone from the property, regulate the use of the property, and require someone to leave the property.

How long does an occupation order last?

There is no set period for a family law occupation order to last as an occupation order is granted for a certain timeframe. These orders don’t normally last more than 6 months. However, the court has the power to extend the order in special cases.

What evidence do I need for an occupation order?

Evidence is required to obtain an occupation order, which will be presented to the court. In cases of domestic abuse, you’ll need to provide a statement with details about when the abuse occurs, including the first, worst, and most recent occurrences. This also extends to if there is a pattern of controlling behaviour.

Other evidence that is required includes statements from friends or family members who witnessed the abuse, if relevant. Information about the property also needs to be handed over, such as whether it is owned or rented, who is in charge of paying the mortgage or rent as well as the housing requirements of those involved, especially where children are present.

Contact Mark Reynolds Solicitors today

At Mark Reynolds Solicitors, we can assist in sorting issues around family law by offering expert legal advice and representation. We help you navigate the process from gathering evidence to presenting a strong case in court.

If you are seeking legal advice, application assistance, help with evidence gathering or court representation, contact us today. For more information or to discuss your case, phone us on 0800 002 9577 or visit our website.

What is mediation in family law?

Posted on by Mark Reynolds

Family disputes can be very emotionally charged, which sometimes makes it difficult to sit down and have the calm and constructive discussions needed to resolve issues.

However, it’s in the best interests of all parties if family disputes can be resolved amicably, particularly when children are involved.

Family law mediation is a process where families can sit down together and negotiate future arrangements with the help of a neutral third party called a mediator.

In this article, we’ll learn more about the purpose of family mediation and what the process involves.

What is the purpose of family mediation?

Family law often requires parties to come to an amicable agreement so that their case can move forward. The agreement could involve divorce settlements, child arrangements, parental responsibility, and other related matters.

Family mediation aims to help families negotiate arrangements and resolve disputes amicably so that they don’t have to go to court.

During mediation, a third party, known as a mediator, facilitates communication between the parties to help them reach a mutually amicable agreement.

Attending mediation can help families gain more control over arrangements than they would if the case went to the courts. It can also help to improve communication between parties and resolve disputes quickly and affordably.

What is the mediation process in family law?

Before you can access family mediation services, you will need to attend a meeting called a Mediation Information and Assessment Meeting. During this meeting, you will learn more about mediation and whether it’s right for you.

Mediation sessions usually last one to two hours and are held by a mediator. During the session, the mediator acts impartially and helps both parties work through their issues together and consider the different options available to them. Sometimes, more than one mediation session is required to come to an agreement. Once an agreement has been reached, the mediator writes it down in a Memorandum of Understanding.

Agreements made in mediation are not legally binding but may be used later in court.

Who pays for family mediation?

According to the Family Mediation Council, the average cost of mediation in the UK is £140 per person, per hour. However, this price can vary depending on the service used.

You may be able to receive mediation for free or access help covering the cost if you are on a low income and qualify for Legal Aid. Legal Aid is a type of means-tested government funding. You must be able to provide proof of your current financial situation to demonstrate your eligibility.

At Mark Reynolds Solicitors, our team of specialist family law solicitors have helped countless families in the North West to resolve disputes amicably.

If you need legal advice or family mediation services, contact us today to learn more about our family law services.

What is an undertaking in family law?

Posted on by Mark Reynolds

In family law, an undertaking is a useful tool for resolving disputes and formalising agreements amicably without the need for a court order.

In this article, we’ll answer the question; ‘What is an undertaking in family law?’, explaining the difference between an order and an undertaking as well as the consequences of breaching an undertaking.

What are undertakings in family law?

An undertaking is a legally-binding promise made voluntarily by a person to the court.

In family law, undertakings are often made during legal proceedings in cases concerning divorce, child custody, and domestic violence.

An undertaking is usually a promise to do or refrain from doing something or to pay money.

They’re usually made in circumstances where the family court does not have the power to make an order.

What is the difference between an order and an undertaking?

Once an undertaking has been made, it’s legally binding and has many of the same effects as a court order.

The main difference between an order and an undertaking is that an undertaking cannot be imposed; it can only be made voluntarily with the consent of the party making it.

Is an undertaking the same as a non-molestation order?

A non-molestation order is a formal court order that prohibits one party from molesting another, whereas an undertaking is a voluntary promise made by a party to the court.

While both an order and an undertaking can be used to address issues like harassment and violence, they do not have the same automatic powers.

If a non-molestation order is breached, the party in breach can be immediately arrested and face criminal charges.

While breaching an undertaking can have serious consequences, it is not a criminal offence, and there is no power of arrest attached.

Common examples of undertakings in family law

Let’s examine some common scenarios when undertakings are made in family law to understand better where one might be applied.

  • Non-molestation – One party might undertake not to contact, harass, or come within a certain distance of the other party or their children
  • Asset protection – A party might undertake not to sell, mortgage, or otherwise dispose of marital assets during the divorce proceedings
  • Property vacating – One party might undertake to vacate the family home by a certain date
  • Child relocation – A parent might undertake not to take the children out of their current school or local area or travel abroad with them without the other parent’s permission
  • Payment of bills or debts – After the financial aspects of a divorce are settled, one party might undertake to continue paying household bills or shared debts

What happens if an undertaking is broken?

An undertaking represents a legally binding promise, and breaking one can have serious consequences. Depending on the circumstances, breaking the promise you make in an undertaking could result in imprisonment or an unlimited fine.

Why choose Mark Reynolds Solicitors for family law?

At Mark Reynolds Solicitors, our team of specialist family law solicitors have helped countless families in the North West to resolve disputes amicably.

If you need legal support or advice regarding undertaking family law or any other family law matter, contact us today for a free consultation.

What is a consent order in UK family law?

Posted on by Mark Reynolds

Consent orders play an important role helping families going through a divorce, or separation, to formalise arrangements for how children will be looked cared for.

In this article, we intend to answer the question; ‘What is a consent order in UK family law?’, explaining what a consent order is used for, and how much it costs to apply for one.

What is a family consent order?

A consent order is a legally binding document that formalises an agreement between parties about how a child will be looked after.

They’re often made after a divorce or separation to formalise an agreement about a child’s care, and are used to agree on details about where the child will live, when they will spend time with each parent, and when and what other types of contact can take place.

A consent order must be signed by both parties, and approved by the court, to be legally binding and enforceable.

What happens if a parent breaks a consent order?

If one parent breaches the terms of a consent order, the other parent may apply to the court requesting it enforces the order.

The court will examine the facts, and depending on the situation, it might make an enforcement order or an order for compensation for financial loss.

An enforcement order means the person in breach of the order must complete between 40 and 200 hours of unpaid work.

An order for compensation for financial loss will require the parent in breach to reimburse any financial losses you’ve incurred as a result of their non-compliance.

Can courts reject consent orders?

When making a consent order, you must apply to the court to get the consent order approved.

The court may reject the consent order if it does not think it’s in your child’s best interest.

If this happens, the court may change your consent order or make a different court order to decide what is best for your child.

Do I need a solicitor to get a consent order?

To apply for a consent order, you need to draft an informal agreement and attach it to a completed C100 form to be submitted to the family court.

While you’re not legally required to have an agreement drafted by a solicitor, it’s highly recommended that you do.

A specialist family law solicitor can ensure that your agreement is watertight and aligned with everyone’s best interests.

A solicitor can also complete necessary forms for you, facilitating a swifter and smoother process.

How much does a consent order cost in the UK?

There is a £255 fee to apply for a consent order.

If you’re eligible for help with legal fees, you may be able to apply for free or at a reduced cost.

Why choose Mark Reynolds Solicitors for help applying for a consent order?

At Mark Reynolds Solicitors, our team of specialist family law solicitors is here to provide support, guidance, and legal services to families navigating child arrangement cases.

Contact us today for a free consultation, and we’ll work with you to ensure that your child’s best interests are always protected.

Can you get legal aid for family law?

Posted on by Mark Reynolds

Seeking legal services or advice to resolve family issues or disputes can be expensive.

However, you may be eligible for help with paying these expenses.

Legal aid is a type of state funding that can be used to help pay for legal advice, mediation, or representation in court.

It’s designed to help people on a low income to gain access to the legal services and support that they need.

However, legal aid is not available to everyone or for every case.

In this article, we will answer the question “Can you get legal aid for family law?” and explore when legal aid is available and who is eligible for it.

Is legal aid available in family law?

Yes, legal aid is available in family law, but only in certain circumstances.

When assessing your eligibility for family law legal aid, the following factors are considered.

  • Scope – The type of legal problem you’re dealing with
  • Means – Your financial circumstances
  • Merits – How serious the problem is and the likelihood of success

Legal aid is more readily available for public law family cases, particularly if a local authority believes a child is at risk of harm and needs legal protection or social services have begun care proceedings.

What does family legal aid cover?

Family legal aid can be used to help pay for legal services relating to various family law matters, including divorce and separation, child custody and contact arrangements, domestic violence cases, care proceedings, child abduction, and mediation.

However, it’s only usually available to resolve family disputes about child arrangements or financial disputes following a divorce or separation if there is evidence of domestic abuse or a child is deemed to be at risk of abuse.

Can I get free legal aid for family court UK?

There are several types of legal aid available – legal help, legal representation, and mediation.

Legal help is used to pay for legal advice and assistance, whereas legal representation may be used to pay for legal representation in the family court and a family law solicitor to help you prepare for the case.

Can you get legal aid for a child arrangement order?

It may be possible to obtain legal aid to help pay the legal fees associated with obtaining a child arrangement order if the child in question is at risk in their parent’s care and the person applying for legal aid can meet the means and merits tests.

Family law services from Mark Reynolds Solicitors

Mark Reynolds Solicitors does not accept legal aid cases.

However, we’re proud to have establishe a reputation as one of the leading family law firms in the North West of England, with offices in Warrington, Liverpool, Runcorn, and Leigh.

We offer confidential, expert legal advice tailored to your unique circumstances and a just and compassionate service.

To discuss your family law matter confidentially with a specialist family law solicitor, contact Mark Reynolds Solicitors today by calling 0800 002 9577.

How much does a solicitor cost for family law?

Posted on by Mark Reynolds

Whether you’re navigating a complex divorce, or require help negotiating child arrangements following a separation, a family law solicitor provides you with the legal support and guidance you need to reach a fair and amicable resolution.

Here, we’ll explore the circumstances under which you may need a family law solicitor and provide insight into the costs associated with hiring one.

Why would you need a family law solicitor?

Family law solicitors provide invaluable support and legal advice to families navigating changes to their family dynamic.

They can provide a wide range of services, including legal advice, representation, document preparation, mediation, and negotiation.

These services help ensure proceedings are handled fairly and that the rights and interests of all parties, particularly those of children, are protected.

Some of the most common family matters that require a family law solicitor include:

  • Divorce or separation
  • Civil partnerships
  • Child arrangements
  • Grandparents’ and relatives rights
  • Domestic violence
  • Change of name
  • Judicial separation
  • Parental responsibility
  • Prenuptial or pre-cohabitation agreement

How much does a solicitor cost for family law in the UK?

The cost of hiring a family law solicitor completely depends on the details of your case.

Several different factors influence the cost, including the solicitor you choose, the area of family law involved, and the complexity of the case. For example, you can expect to pay far less in solicitor fees for a simple name change than you would for a complex divorce.

Always check with your solicitor whether they charge an hourly rate or a fixed fee.

For cases charged at an hourly rate, the price per hour is dependent on the solicitor’s level of experience. A solicitor’s hourly rate can vary from £150 to £300 per hour, plus VAT.

Most solicitors can provide an estimate of the number of hours your case should take.

Some solicitors offer a fixed-fee service, where they provide a quote for the case before they start work and a guarantee that this price won’t change – most clients prefer this approach as it is more reliable and easier to budget for.

How much are family court fees in the UK?

Some family law cases require an application to be filed with the court, for example, divorce and judicial separation.

Family court fees vary widely, depending on the type of application or action you are taking.

Applications relating to domestic violence cases are usually free of charge, while applications for a divorce, dissolution, or judicial separation cost £593.

It’s always preferable not to go to court as court proceedings can be very expensive. However, if a family law matter cannot be settled using negotiation or mediation, then it may require court intervention.

If this is the case, you will need to budget for these fees.

Your solicitor can advise you on the cost of court fees and any waivers or deductions that may be available to you.

Need free, no-obligation legal advice regarding a family law matter? Speak to our team of experienced family law solicitors here at Mark Reynolds Solicitors by calling us on 0800 002 9577.