Family Law

Family law encompasses a wide range of legal issues that revolve around familial relationships and domestic matters. It provides a framework for addressing various aspects of family life, including marriage, divorce, child custody, adoption, and more. In this article, we will explore the key principles and areas of focus within family law, shedding light on its importance and the role it plays in protecting the rights and well-being of individuals and families.

Call 01204 977200 or email enquiries@sksolicitors.co.uk for free friendly advice.

1. Marriage and Divorce: Family law governs the legal aspects of marriage and divorce. It outlines the requirements for a valid marriage, including age, consent, and capacity. In the event of a marital breakdown, family law provides procedures and guidelines for obtaining a divorce, division of assets, alimony, child custody, and visitation rights.
2. Child Custody and Support: One of the crucial areas is child custody and support. It aims to ensure the best interests of the child are met when parents separate or divorce. Family courts consider factors such as the child’s well-being, parental capacity, and stability when determining custody arrangements. Child support guidelines are also established to ensure financial provisions for the child’s upbringing and care.
3. Adoption and Surrogacy: Family law governs the legal process of adoption, enabling individuals or couples to legally assume parental rights and responsibilities for a child. It establishes procedures for adoption, including home studies, background checks, and court approval. Similarly, family law addresses surrogacy arrangements, regulating the legal rights and obligations of intended parents and surrogates.
4. Domestic Violence and Protection Orders: Family law plays a critical role in addressing issues related to domestic violence and abuse. It provides legal mechanisms to protect victims and prevent further harm. Family courts can issue protection orders to prohibit an abuser from contacting or approaching the victim and may award temporary custody of children to ensure their safety.
5. Property and Asset Division: In cases of divorce or separation, family law governs the division of marital property and assets. It aims to ensure a fair and equitable distribution, considering factors such as the duration of the marriage, financial contributions, and future needs of each spouse. Family law also addresses the valuation and division of shared assets, including real estate, investments, and businesses.
6. Prenuptial and Postnuptial Agreements: This allows couples to enter into prenuptial or postnuptial agreements, which outline the division of assets and financial arrangements in the event of divorce or death. These agreements provide clarity and can help avoid disputes and lengthy legal battles in the future.

OUR FEES

Uncontested Divorce

We charge £550 + 20% VAT ad the court fee of £593.00 if you are the petitioner. The court fee is a mandatory disbursement for the petitioner , but you might be exempt from paying this is you are on low income . If you are the respondent (the person being served with the divorce) it is £250 +20% VAT.

Contested Divorce

In a contested divorce, the costs will vary depending on the complexity of the issues. The work is done on an hourly rate. Hourly rates depend on the experience of the person acting for you and the range from the Partner level (£255 per hour plus 20% VAT ) to Paralegal/Trainee solicitor level £126 per hour plus 20% VAT)

Separation

Work around separating couples who have cohabited, for their financial negotiations or around their children’s arrangements will be done on an hourly rate. Hourly rates depend on the experience of the person acting for you and the range from the Partner level (£255 per hour plus 20% VAT) to Paralegal/Trainee solicitor level £126 per hour plus 20% VAT).

Child Contact/Custody + Support

The work is done on an hourly rate. Hourly rates depend on the experience of the person acting for you and the range from the Partner level (£255 per hour plus 20% VAT ) to Paralegal/Trainee solicitor level £126 per hour plus 20% VAT).

Finances/Property Asset Division

The work is done on an hourly rate. Hourly rates depend on the experience of the person acting for you and the range from the Partner level (£255 per hour plus 20% VAT ) to Paralegal/Trainee solicitor level £126 per hour plus 20% VAT).

All other work including Domestic Violence and Protection Orders and, Prenuptial and Postnuptial Agreements and Adoption and Surrogacy work done an hourly rate. Hourly rates depend on the experience of the person acting for you and the range from the Partner level (£255 per hour plus 20% VAT ) to Paralegal/Trainee solicitor level £126 per hour plus 20% VAT).

Call 01204 977200 or email enquiries@sksolicitors.co.uk for free friendly advice.

Family law encompasses a broad spectrum of legal matters that profoundly impact individuals and families. It provides a framework for resolving disputes, protecting the rights of all parties involved, and ensuring the best interests of children. Understanding the principles and areas of focus within family law is crucial for navigating the complexities of familial relationships and seeking appropriate legal remedies when needed.

By consulting with SK Solicitors, individuals and families can navigate the legal landscape with confidence, finding solutions that prioritize the well-being and stability of all parties involved.