The breakdown of a marriage is one of the most stressful life-changing events, leaving you not knowing which way to turn or how to pick up the pieces and move forward.
Whether your matter involves divorce or issues surrounding finances, property or children, our specialist family lawyers provide high-quality and practical advice, always given with sensitivity and reassurance. At a time when emotions run high, we aim to minimise conflict throughout what is an unsettling time for you and your family.
Our relationship breakdown legal services
Across our Relationship Breakdown service, we can assist you in the following matters; our specialist team is only a phone call away:
- Divorce & Separation
- Disputes involving children
- Financial Issues
- Property matters
- Pension agreements & entitlements
- Domestic Violence cases
- Pre and post-nuptial agreements
- Co-habitation/Living Together agreements
- Civil Partnerships & Same-Sex Marriages
FAQ’s
How long does the divorce process take?
In England and Wales, the legal divorce process usually takes around 9–12 months from the date the application is issued to the Final Order. There is a built in 20 week reflection period before you can apply for the Conditional Order, followed by a further six weeks before the divorce can be finalised. But that is just the divorce process itself, which makes you legally unmarried. It does not resolve finances or sort out arrangements for children. Those matters may be resolved quicker or slower.
What happens to property and finances in a divorce?
A divorce financial settlement considers the full range of assets, including the family home, savings, pensions and investments. The court looks at factors such as earning capacity, future income, childcare responsibilities, health needs and overall asset availability when deciding what is fair. While equal division is often the starting point, outcomes are adjusted based on individual circumstances. Sometimes there are things that come in that may not be considered joint assets. For example, an inheritance received later in the marriage may be treated separately. That does not mean it is not included within the divorce asset division, but it does mean it is treated differently from assets that are joint within the marriage.
How are pensions treated in a divorce?
In a divorce, pensions are treated like other assets and are included in the overall financial settlement. They are added to the total asset pot and considered as part of the fair division between both parties. The main difference is that pensions are not usually available for immediate access, so their capital value is assessed instead.
What happens to the children when parents separate?
When parents separate, child arrangements after divorce are based on what is in the best interests of the children. Decisions include where children live, how time is shared between parents, and how important matters are decided. Arrangements are flexible and shaped around practical factors such as work commitments and existing care roles. Mediation and early legal advice can help parents reach stable, workable agreements that support children’s wellbeing.
For more detailed guidance, you can watch our full series of divorce and separation videos here.
Domestic abuse and Legal Aid
For clients experiencing domestic abuse, we understand that safety and confidentiality come first. Our family law and divorce solicitors in Ipswich and Hadleigh handle these cases with care, ensuring quick and effective action to protect you and your loved ones.
We are proud to be one of the few solicitors in Ipswich and Hadleigh able to offer legal aid in domestic abuse and family law cases, helping ensure that everyone can access the legal protection and representation they deserve.
Free legal advice in Hadleigh
We also provide free 30-minute legal consultations every Tuesday and Friday in Hadleigh, giving you the opportunity to speak with one of our solicitors about your situation at no cost.
You can book an appointment or simply walk (on Tuesdays only) in to discuss any legal matter in confidence.
If you’d like to speak to one of our solicitors or book your free 30-minute legal advice session in Hadleigh, please call us or send a message below.
Contact our family law and divorce solicitors
If you are experiencing a relationship breakdown and need guidance from experienced divorce solicitors, contact our team in Ipswich today. We’ll help you navigate the process with clear, practical advice tailored to your situation.
