Family Law

Whether as a result of breakdown of a marriage, a civil partnership, or a relationship where you have not been married, our team can help you resolve outstanding financial issues. If you have reached an agreement with the other party, we will assist you in getting this written into a Court Order which is binding on both parties and prevents any further financial claims. Where no agreement is reached, we will talk to you about the benefits of mediation, and if necessary, guide you through the court process. Find out more here.

From the issuing of the divorce proceedings through to the grant of the decree absolute, our team will guide you through the procedure as quickly and efficiently as possible, whether you are the applicant or the respondent. It is also important that we talk together about related property and financial issues, as well as issues relating to children. Find out more here.

Research has proven that if issues concerning the children can be agreed amicably and positively, this benefits the children. We therefore aim to resolve any disputes without the need to attend court, which can be costly and emotionally draining. Whether you are a mother, father, grandparents, step parents or other relative, our team can provide advice and assistance relating to contact, residence, injunctions, parental responsibility, adoption and special guardianship orders. Find out more here.

Sadly, domestic abuse is an issue in a large number of relationships.  Domestic abuse can include physical abuse and also emotional or financial abuse.  At Butcher and Barlow, our supportive team are able to advise on these sensitive issues and the support that can be put in place to assist you and your children if you are victims of domestic abuse. This includes applying to the court for non-molestation orders and occupation orders (injunctions). These orders can protect you and your children from domestic abuse and protect your occupation of a home.

In cases where Children’s Services (Social Services) and the Local Authority are involved with your children, our specialist care team can guide you through the process, whether a parent, grandparent or family friend.

Relationship agreements are legally prepared documents designed to give protection in the event that things do not work out as intended. They can be in the form of a Cohabitation Agreement if you are thinking of moving in together and sharing living costs, or a prenuptial agreement, whether for a marriage or a civil partnership. To ensure they are legally binding contracts and therefore enforceable, it is essential that they are prepared by a legal expert and executed in accordance with their instructions.

Entering into a marriage marks an exciting new chapter in your life. Regardless, it does come with potential complications for your finances. To ensure that you have the right protections in place, and feel more comfortable moving forward, entering into a prenuptial agreement may be a sensible decision. Find out more here.