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Common questions

  • Yes. A no-fault divorce is a legal process that does not require you to cite specific reasons for the divorce. Instead, you simply confirm that your marriage has irretrievably broken down. There is no obligation to assign blame to your partner when initiating the divorce proceedings, and your spouse typically has very limited grounds to contest it.

  • Yes. We help parents create fair, practical plans for where children live, when they see each parent, and how decisions are made. We aim to reduce stress and avoid court where possible.

  • If you have reached an agreement on your financial settlement, our experienced family lawyers can review the deal to assess its fairness. They can also draft the necessary legal documents to facilitate the creation of a binding court order, providing legal security and enforceability to the agreement.

    While you have the flexibility to agree to various financial settlements, our team can guide you in evaluating whether the agreement aligns with your best interests.

    It is important to note that you can only obtain a court order if the court considers that the agreement is fair, highlighting the importance of striking a balance that is agreeable to both parties involved. Our expertise ensures that your decisions are well-informed and legally sound throughout the divorce process.

    When it comes to determining your financial settlement during a divorce, there is no one-size-fits-all formula. Each case is unique and is considered based on its specific circumstances.

    Whether your assets are modest, or you have a high net worth, our team of the best divorce lawyers in Leeds possess the expertise and experience to provide tailored advice and help you navigate through the complexities of reaching a settlement that is fair and appropriate for your specific situation.

    For an insight into your potential divorce settlement, please use our divorce calculator.

  • Indeed, emotions can cloud judgment. When anger, betrayal, or grief drives decisions, one might make hasty choices that may not be financially beneficial in the long run. It is crucial to separate feelings from financial decisions, and this is where our team can be of immense support.

  • Not always, but it is usually advisable. Finalising a divorce without a financial order can leave future claims open, while potentially leaving parties less protected financially. Our family law team will explain how to protect your position and the timing that best suits your situation.

  • Not always. Many people reach a financial agreement through negotiation or non-court dispute resolution, but you will still need this to be approved by a Judge. If you do need to go to court, we will guide and represent you.

  • It is rare to have to attend court for a divorce particularly now it is now no longer possible to defend an application for divorce save in very exceptional situations.

  • Research tells us that arrangements agreed between the parties are much more likely to succeed if they are made by agreement between the parents. However, where one parent does not agree to those arrangements we can suggest alternative ways of reaching a resolution for your children for example, you may need to try mediation, arbitration or ultimately court proceedings to help you sort these arrangements.

  • Most divorces do not require you to attend court. The process is largely handled through paperwork and online systems. We guide you through this so you know what to expect and when personal attendance may be required.

  • No. There is no obligation to start a divorce application after seeking advice. Some people decide to separate first, some reconcile, and others proceed with divorce once they feel certain.

  • Non Molestation Orders automatically have a power of arrest attached as a breach of this order is an arrestable offence. If you obtain an occupation order you may need a power of arrest.

  • We have outlined above just some of the issues which might have to be considered when you wish to achieve a fair settlement. No two cases are the same. Often, the farm value will run into millions and there is a lot at stake.

    At Winston solicitors you will be introduced to some of the best experts to guide you with valuations, accountancy and business advice so that you can best use all the available options in relation to the farming assets to get a financial settlement that allows both spouses to move out of the marriage and on with their lives.

    Understanding all your options is crucial to unlocking assets to enable a financial settlement.

  • You can file for divorce without a solicitor, but having legal support can help protect your finances, property, and future — especially if children are involved or things are contested.

  • You are not legally required to use a solicitor, but many people find legal advice invaluable. We help ensure the process is handled correctly and advise on important related issues such as finances and children, which can have long-term consequences.

  • You may need experts in both areas. We can offer specialist divorce advice with expert understanding of trust law and we have access to the experts you need additional expertise is required.

  • Yes, if you want certainty over property, pensions, or money now and in the future. An order makes the agreement legally binding and can protect you in future.

  • International cases involve additional complexity. Working with a solicitor experienced in international divorce can help you avoid costly mistakes and protect your position.

  • You only require either a good colour scan or photograph of the original that is clear and shows all four corners of the document. If the certificate is not in English, you also require an official translation of the certificate.

  • No. Many people speak to us while they are still thinking things through. Our role is to help you understand your options so you can make informed decisions when you feel ready.

  • If you decide not to divorce, you will remain legally married to your spouse and your financial claims against each other will remain open indefinitely. The financial claims can only be ended by court order.
  • Yes, these orders are made by the court, but in certain situations applications can be made urgently and sometimes without the other person being present. Our solicitors guide you through this process sensitively.

  • Yes, you will need to make an application to the court to get a Non-Molestation Order and/or Occupation Order. However, if you are at immediate risk of harm we recommend that you always contact the police.

  • Yes. The rules are the same. You can make a pre- or post-civil partnership agreement to protect your assets and plan for the future.

  • We extend our services to clients located across the country, ensuring that distance is never an obstacle in securing professional legal support. As long as your divorce falls under the jurisdiction of the courts in England and Wales, we can be of service to you.

    Our best family law solicitor in Leeds acts for a diverse client base. Regardless of your location, we offer various modes of communication and consultation to accommodate your preferences.