Family Law Blog

Guidance and advice on divorce, separation, and family law matters

Separation Agreements: Are they legally binding?

Separation Agreements: Are they legally binding?

Knowing where you stand during separation can be very difficult to comprehend, especially where you share children and/or financial assets. One solution to remedy this confusion would be a separation agreement, which outlines the terms and conditions that govern the separation. This includes the division of assets and any financial…

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Living with a partner who owns the house – what are your rights?

Unmarried couples owning property together – the law

Cohabiting couples in the UK have no automatic legal rights to property, assets, or inheritance, regardless of how long they live together. There is no such thing as “common law marriage”. Upon separation or death, property rights depend entirely on how the property is owned and registered, or on proving…

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No fault divorce: pros and cons

Couple next to tree

Since April 2022, couples in England and Wales have been able to take advantage of a new ‘no fault’ divorce process, under the terms of the Divorce, Dissolution and Separation Act 2020. This represents a significant change to how divorce works in England and Wales, so it is important for…

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How to find a good divorce lawyer in the UK

To find a good divorce lawyer in the UK, focus on members of Resolution who prioritise constructive, non-confrontational approaches. Look for accreditations, check online client reviews for reputation, and book initial consultations to assess their expertise, communication style, and fee structure. All family lawyers at Woolley & Co are members of Resolution…

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Can I get a prenup after marriage?

couple holding hands

This is a question we’re hearing from more and more couples. In some instances, it’s when we tell them they have left it too late to get a prenup before marriage. While you cannot get a prenup after marriage, there is good news. There is an equivalent that can be…

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How to tell children about divorce

Tell children about divorce together as a team, using simple, honest language to explain that you are separating but still love them. Emphasise that the decision is permanent, not their fault, and explain practical changes to their daily life. Reassure them of your continued love and support during this transition….

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How to divorce amicably in 6 easy steps

An amicable divorce involves cooperating to end a marriage with minimal conflict, focusing on respectful communication, shared goals, and fair, prompt negotiations. Utilise methods like joint applications, mediation, and transparent financial disclosure to avoid litigation, prioritise children’s well-being, and reduce emotional and financial costs. At first glance, you may think…

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Divorce advice and tips for women and mothers in the UK

Mother and children

Divorce advice for women emphasises securing financial independence, hiring specialist legal counsel, and prioritising mental health. Key steps include gathering financial documents, understanding your rights to assets/property, and planning for children. Focus on making informed decisions rather than acting on emotion, ensuring you have long-term financial stability. Divorce can be…

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What does marriage mean legally?

What, actually, is marriage?

This is going to seem unromantic but, the reality is, marriage is a legal arrangement. The wedding is where you have the lovely dress, friends and family celebrating, big cake, first dance and the rest of it, but marriage is a legally binding contract. What changes legally when you get…

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Who gets to stay in the house during separation?

During a separation, the right to stay in the home is determined by variables such as ownership status, marital status, and the presence of children. In general, anyone specified in the deed or tenancy agreement has the right to stay. Married couples have “home rights” that allow them to remain…

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How to divorce on the grounds of unreasonable behaviour

Recent changes to the way divorce proceedings are handled in the UK have provided much needed reform to the previous laws which dated back to 1973. These new divorce laws have removed the need to place blame on a partner by using reasons such as ”unreasonable behaviour”. Now, the only…

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The impact of adultery on divorce in the UK

Since April 2022, “no-fault” divorce laws in England and Wales mean adultery is no longer a legal ground for divorce, and you cannot cite it to prove irretrievable breakdown. Adultery generally does not affect financial settlements or child custody, unless marital assets were significantly wasted on an affair. Despite this…

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