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Thinking About Divorce?

If you are thinking about divorce or experiencing a family breakdown, we can provide legal advice.

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What to do if you are thinking about divorce

If a you are thinking about divorce or separation, you may be feeling overwhelmed, uncertain, or simply unsure where to start. Many people arrive at this point after months (sometimes years) of trying to make things work.

At Winston Solicitors, we understand that thinking about divorce is rarely a sudden decision. It is often part of a much bigger picture involving your family, your finances, and your future. You do not need to have all the answers yet. A calm conversation can help you understand your options and decide what feels right for you.

At a glance

  • Talk things through before making decisions
  • Understand divorce, separation and alternatives
  • Get clear, honest legal guidance
  • Support from trusted family solicitors

 

When divorce starts to feel like a possibility

Divorce is not just a legal process. It is an emotional one too. You may be worrying about your children, your home, your finances, or what life might look like for you after your divorce has been finalised.

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Some people contact us because:

  • Communication has broken down
  • Trust has been damaged
  • Living together has become difficult
  • They want clarity, not confrontation

Whatever has brought you here, it is okay to take time to explore your options before committing to a particular path.

You do not always have to divorce straight away

Not everyone who contacts us is ready to start a divorce application. In some cases, understanding the process, the types of orders that can be made and the various ways of resolving all issues can be the right first step.

Our family law team can help you understand:

Having clear information often reduces anxiety and helps people regain a sense of control.

Putting children first when divorce is on your mind

If you have children, they are likely at the heart of your concerns. Many parents worry about how separation or divorce will affect their children and what arrangements might look like moving forward.

We take a child-focused approach and can talk you through:

  • Child arrangements and decision-making
  • How the courts approach disputes concerning the arrangements for the future care of children
  • Ways to reduce conflict and protect stability

Our aim is to help families move forward in a way that prioritises children’s wellbeing.

Clear advice, without pressure

Speaking to a solicitor does not mean you have to take immediate action. Many people contact us simply to understand their position and consider their next steps.

At Winston Solicitors, we are known for:

  • Listening carefully
  • Explaining the law in simple terms
  • Being honest about options and likely outcomes
  • Supporting clients at their own pace

You’ll never be pushed into a decision. We are here to guide you when divorce is on your mind, not rush you.

How we can support you

Our experienced Family Law team advises clients at every stage of relationship breakdown, from early concerns through to formal proceedings when needed.

We can help with:

  • Divorce and civil partnership dissolution
  • Separation and interim arrangements
  • Disputes in respect of the arrangements for children
  • Financial matters

If you decide to move forward, you will have expert legal support every step of the way.

Take the next step when you are ready

If a separation or commencing a divorce application is on your mind, you do not have to work things out alone. A confidential conversation can help you gain clarity and feel more confident about what comes next.

To speak to our Family Law team, call 0113 320 5000 or email family@winstonsolicitors.co.uk. We are here to listen and support you, whatever stage you are at.

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.

Not at all. Early advice often helps reduce conflict by setting expectations and exploring constructive options. At Winston Solicitors, we focus on clear, practical guidance and avoiding unnecessary escalation wherever possible.

You can speak to us in complete confidence. Many clients seek initial advice privately before deciding how or when to have conversations with their partner.

Every family is different, but the courts focus on children’s welfare above all else. We help parents understand how arrangements are approached and how to minimise disruption for children during a difficult time.

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.

Client feedback

In dealing with financial arrangements during my difficult divorce I felt safe and supported by Teresa Davidson and her team at Winston Solicitors. Work was always done promptly and I benefitted from evident knowledge and experience as well as diplomacy when required. I would have no hesitation in recommending their service.
Jane
I cannot fault Winston Solicitors. They are very helpfiul and lovely to talk to
Geoff
Harriet Reid dealt with my divorce aided by her excellent assistant Judith Pearson. Both Harriet and Judith were incredibly quick to respond to any questions or concerns I had during the process. I found Harriet to be ideal for me to talk to as she was direct enough to be able to explain what was happening in "plain English" rather than "legal jargon" and to point out the actions I should and shouldn't take. The process is extremely emotive and a calm understanding advisor is essential.
Richard
I chose Winston Solicitors following a strong recommendation from a close friend, and I have been extremely impressed with the service I received throughout both my divorce proceedings and house sale.A special thank you goes to Teresa and Emily in the Family Law team, who were outstanding from start to finish. Teresa consistently kept me informed about costs and the next steps in the process, which I found incredibly reassuring during what was a very challenging time. Her knowledge, expertise, and professionalism were exceptional, and I am extremely grateful to have had her representing me throughout. Emily’s communication was excellent; she was always prompt, professional, and supportive. Together, they provided guidance and reassurance that made a difficult situation far more manageable.I would also like to thank Laura and Amanda in the Conveyancing Department for their excellent work on my house sale. Their professionalism, efficiency, and attention to detail ensured that everything progressed smoothly from beginning to end.I am genuinely grateful for the support I received from everyone involved and would highly recommend Winston Solicitors to anyone seeking expert legal advice and representation. Their dedication, communication, and client care were outstanding throughout.
Jason
During such a difficult and stressful time I found Winston Solicitors excellent. I worked with Wendy throughout my divorce she was incredible, supportive, hard working and extremely knowledgeable. No question was too silly , no problem was too great for her. I trusted her advice 100% and was more than happy to take her lead. She held my hand every step of the way and for that I will be forever grateful. I have already recommended her to others and will continue to do so. I wouldn't hesitate to use Winston Solicitors in the future
Louise
I am extremely grateful for the support and guidance I received throughout my financial consent order process.Wendy was direct, practical, and very human in her approach. She handled my matter personally, which made a huge difference. I did not feel like I was being passed between assistants or treated like just another case. I felt properly listened to and supported.This was an extremely stressful process for me, but I trusted Wendy completely. Her advice was clear and realistic, and she helped me understand what mattered and how best to move forward.The wording she used in my consent order was particularly strong. She understood my situation accurately and phrased it in a way that clearly explained the reality of the marriage and the financial arrangements. I believe this careful and intelligent wording helped the court understand the case properly and approve the order.I recommend Wendy very highly. She made a very stressful process feel less overwhelming and helped me achieve the outcome I needed.
Anna.
Very professional put me at ease straightaway very helpful I would definitely use Winston’s again and would recommend them to family and friends
Shirley
Harriet Reid went above and beyond throughout the whole process. Her patience, professionalism and impeccable handing of the matter made a stessful situation much easier to bear. Her advice was spot on at all points and the proactive approach was much appreciated. I would not hesitate to recommend Harriet and her team and cannot thank them enough for their support and guidance from start to finnish.
Lisa
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