Family Law Northampton

The legal process of terminating a civil partnership/marriage through a court procedure (that rarely ends up in court.) Divorce typically takes between eight and nine months if undisputed and can formally be issued after 1 year of marriage or a civil partnership.

When dealing with divorce or separation there are a number of things to consider:

• responsibility for debt
• division of assets in business
• distribution of savings and assets
• payments towards recurring maintenance
• issues related to pension sharing

A typical separation or divorce can be an expensive process. Our Northampton based Family Lawyers aim to be as transparent as possible when it comes to costs throughout the whole process.

Before marriage, you may be considering a prenuptial agreement to deal with issues regarding finance and property ownership. It is also recommended to regularly have these arrangements regularly reviewed over the course of the relationship in case circumstances have changed – known as a postnuptial agreement. In the event of the relationship breaking down these agreements can be used in court should they be considered fair, but are not necessarily binding. The agreements can be used as the basis of a financial settlement when dealing with divorce proceedings.

Unmarried partners are considered differently to married couples by law. With a cohabitation agreement, we can help to set out clear arrangements that deal with anything from household contents to property ownership. Our Family Law specialists in Northampton can help to create a bespoke Cohabitation Agreement based on your personal circumstances which will deal with any issues that arise should the relationship break down.

A method of resolving disputed in a voluntary and confidential manner. Mediation is an ideal solution when dealing with disputes concerning housing, finance or children. The aim is to come to a settlement or resolution and to avoid the expense and stress from potential litigation and court appearances through the use of an impartial mediator.

Mediation is available before or during a dispute. A typical session will last over an hour and will be flexible around all parties involved in contrast to the rigid system of court proceedings. Any member attending mediation is entitled to take their own legal advice at any time.

Physical injury, threats, verbal abuse, harassment, or bullying from someone close to you are all examples of domestic violence. We can offer advice when moving forward, which could mean police involvement, defending an application or processing the use of undertakings.

The costs can often be recovered from the other person if the court orders it, but only if you’re making the application yourself. This will be discussed during the initial consultation.

Children are often at the centre of a dispute when a relationship breaks down. All any of us want is what’s best for the child, and that’s why having a Family Law specialist is so important. Our experienced family lawyers will outline the key options available to resolve these issues whether through court proceedings or a mutual agreement.

If an agreement cannot be reached there are a number of Court Orders that can be submitted. At Wilson Browse we will be there every step of the way to offer advice and reassurance through the whole process.

Childcare proceedings can be a tough and stressful time. Our team aim to make the process as smooth as possible by outlining the full legal process along with the timescales involved. We’re here to help you understand the vast maze of legal processes that are mandatory when adopting a child. If necessary we can also attend and take on any necessary court proceeding, meetings or conferences.