Family Law

Family breakdowns can be painful and life-changing, Pennine Law take pride in having a practical approach, whilst also showing empathy and awareness of both the emotional and financial difficulties.

Take advantage of an initial free and confidential consultation, in a friendly environment, to talk through any fears you may have in relation to your problems.

Our services include:

  • Pre-Nuptial Agreements
  • Post-Nuptial Agreements
  • Divorce and financial matters
  • Separation
  • Separation Agreements
  • Civil Partnerships
  • Residence and Contact with Children
  • Co-habitation disputes
  • Domestic Violence – Non Molestation and Occupation Orders
  • Change of Name Deeds
  • Property Division

Divorce & Separation

The breakdown of a marriage or long-term relationship can be a deeply traumatic, and stressful process for you and your family. When you have decided you want a divorce, you need prompt, professional advice.  Here at Pennine Law we understand that every breakdown is just as unique as the individuals involved, therefore we work closely with our clients to achieve results right for them.

Frequently Asked Questions

What reasons do I need to get a divorce?

To get a divorce you will need to prove that the marriage has irretrievably broken down. This need to be evidenced by the party applying for the divorce through one of the following: Unreasonable behaviour, adultery, separation, desertion

What is a Petitioner and a Respondent?

The spouse applying for the divorce is known as the Petitioner, and the other is the Respondent.

What is a Decree Nisi?

Once an affidavit has been sent to Court the Judge will read the petition and all other papers and if he confirms there is sufficient cause for the marriage to be ended will send a certificate to say the divorce will be granted. The Judge will fix a date for the Decree Nisi to be pronounced. This does not end the marriage you have to wait another 6 weeks before the divorce is finalised.

What is Decree Absolute?

The legal ending of the divorce; a final order in divorce proceedings. Once granted your marriage has been dissolved and you are legally single. It cannot be granted less than six weeks and one day following the Decree Nisi.

How long will it take to get divorced? 

The legal formality of getting a divorce is a relatively straightforward process.  The length of a divorce can vary and depends on how co-operative your spouse is in the divorce proceedings.  If they return the necessary Court form without delay the divorce process should take between four and six months.   However, if your spouse does not co-operate it may be necessary to personally serve them with the divorce papers by a Court bailiff or enquiry agent at additional cost which will cause delay.

Will I have to go to Court to get divorced?

For an uncontested divorce there will be no need to attend Court.  However, if there is a dispute about who should pay the costs of the divorce a short private hearing may be necessary.

How much does it cost to get divorced?

We will deal with your divorce from start to finish professionally and efficiently keeping you up to date every step of the way. Our fee for an uncontested divorce is fixed at £400 plus VAT. In addition, there is a Court fee of £550 though depending on your financial position you may not have to pay the full Court fee. We will help you to work out if you are entitled to this financial help with the Court fee.

How do I pay? 

Pennine Law offer different ways for you to pay. Ideally payment can be made in full at your first appointment.  Alternatively, you can pay by instalments, most often with an initial payment of £650 which includes the Court fee of £550 and enables the divorce petition to be lodged with the Court.  The second payment of £380 is to be made before we apply for the Decree Absolute bringing the marriage to an end.

What is included?

  • We will manage your divorce from start to finish.
  • We will draft, complete and file with the Court all the divorce forms.
  • We will handle all Court correspondence on your behalf.
  • You will have direct contact with your legal representative by telephone and email throughout the divorce.

What is not included?

  • The cost of obtaining a replacement marriage certificate (approximately £10) or obtaining a translation of a foreign marriage certificate.
  • Advice or work involved in pursuing or enforcing a Costs Order and representation at a costs hearing.
  • Enquiry Agent/Personal Service fees if your spouse does not respond to the Court papers. We can recommend a local enquiry agent and obtain a quote for personal service of the Court documents.
  • Any advice if the divorce is defended or contested
  • Any advice or assistance if the court requires the divorce petition to be amended after being issued or your spouse files a counter divorce petition.
  • Any advice about property issues, finances, children matters or domestic violence.
  • Updating your Will.

If any of the additional work outlined above is required, or any unforeseen circumstances or problems arise, we can continue to support you and let you have further details of our charges.

Does my spouse need a solicitor? 

No, however we always recommend that your spouse takes independent legal advice.