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Family Law Services
Expert Divorce Solicitors
We understand how hard it can be to take that first step, and our experienced divorce solicitors are here to help support you through the process with compassion and expertise.
Divorce is a deeply personal and often overwhelming process, filled with complexities and emotional challenges. At Grant Stephens Family Law, we understand that no two situations are the same. For many, divorce is an unexpected and stressful process, bringing with it the daunting task of dividing finances, assets such as property or businesses, and often the delicate matter of child arrangements.
We work tirelessly to secure the best possible result. Our divorce solicitors are committed to listening to your concerns and navigating your case efficiently. No matter how complex or challenging your case may be, our team is equipped to support you through your divorce.
To get started, arrange a free 30-minute initial consultation with one of our expert solicitors today.
Your local Divorce solicitors
At Grant Stephens Family Law, we go above and beyond to make your divorce as straightforward as possible, expertly guiding our clients through every step of the way.
With offices in both Cardiff and Swansea, we are perfectly positioned to offer our specialist services across the breadth of South Wales, and beyond. Head to our contact page to see our office locations.
What Makes Us Different?
Grant Stephens Family Law is a boutique law firm, specialising in all aspects of family law. We are proud to have been recognised as a ‘Top Tier Firm’ in the Legal 500 for multiple years, highlighting our expertise, experience and excellent client care.
Arrange a free consultation
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What Is a Divorce?
A divorce is the legal process of ending your marriage. It is important to note that going through a divorce only deals with the end of a marriage, many will still need to think about how they want to handle financial matters and child arrangements.
To read more about what a divorce is, read our guide here: Family law guide to divorce
What is no-fault divorce?
Since 2022, the introduction of no-fault divorce has eliminated the need to assign blame for the breakdown of a marriage. This welcomed change streamlines the legal process ensuring a more straightforward resolution.
No fault divorce means that when you apply for a divorce, you no longer need to provide grounds for the breakdown of marriage.
To find out more about what this means, read our article about it, here: No Fault divorce.
Do We Have To Go to Court?
No, not necessarily.
The divorce process itself does not necessarily involve attending court. However, the negotiation of children and finance matters that often coincide with a divorce might involve attending court. At Grant Stephens Family Law, we specialise in court alternative, dispute resolution methods, ensuring that court is only used as a last resort. Our specialist family law solicitors will help you explore the best solution for your individual and personal situation.
If you are interested in finding out more about the benefits of mediation, read about it here: The top 5 benefits of family mediation
If you want to find out more about whether collaborative law might be the best option for you, read about it here: Is collaborative law the right process for my divorce?
How much does a divorce cost?
It is hard to give an exact cost for how much your divorce will cost. Every matter is different and can involve different complexities.
There is a standard court fee of £612 for a divorce application.
At Grant Stephens Family Law, we have solicitors with a range of experience and expertise, all offering different hourly rates. After your initial consultation, our team will provide you with a cost estimate based on the information that you have provided them during your initial meeting.
How Long Does the Divorce Process Take?
The length of a divorce varies depending on its complexity. In cases where both parties can agree on terms, the process can be managed relatively swiftly. However, factors such as financial disputes, shared assets, and child arrangements can make the process longer.
Opting for court alternative options such as mediation or collaborative law may expedite a resolution and lead to a more amicable and quicker outcome.
If you are interested in finding out more about the benefits of mediation, read about it here: The top 5 benefits of family mediation
If you want to find out more about whether collaborative law might be the best option for you, read about it here: Is collaborative law the right process for my divorce?
The Divorce Process – How divorce works
– Step 1
Seek legal advice
While not mandatory, instructing a solicitor will help in understanding your options and the likely outcomes of your divorce.
– Step 2
The Application
One or both parties in the divorce will submit a divorce application to the court (either themselves or via a solicitor) using the HMCTS portal.
– Step 3
A reflection period
After the divorce application has been submitted and the other party involved in the divorce has responded to the petition, the courts require a 20 week reflection period.
During this time, other financial or children matters may continue.
– Step 4
Conditional Order
Previously known as a decree Nisi, the applicants will apply for a conditional order following the 20 week reflection period.
The courts will then review the case and, if everything appears to be okay, the court will grant the order.
– Step 5
Waiting period
Following the conditional order, it is mandatory to wait 6 weeks before the final steps of the divorce can be taken.
– Step 6
Final Order
After the waiting period, the applicants can apply for a final order (previously known as Decree Absolute), which legally ends the marriage.
Ready to book your initial consultation?
We offer an initial consultation where the first 30 minutes are free. Fill out the form and one of the members of our team will be in touch
Divorce and Children
Whether your matter is amicable or complex, dealing with a divorce when there are children involved can be a daunting process.
The solicitors at Grant Stephens Family Law are well equipped to assist you in making child arrangement orders and child maintenance orders during your divorce, ensuring that your children’s welfare and stability are kept are the forefront.
When are child arrangements made during the divorce process?
You can make child arrangement orders, whether done amicably through mediation or through court, simultaneously to your divorce application.
Compassionate solicitors, here to help.
Our team of solicitors are understanding and empathetic, able to sensitively guide you through the process of making child arrangements during your divorce. It is never easy, but with expert solicitors by your side, we can take the weight of your shoulders.
Divorce and Finances
For many, approaching the division of finances during a divorce can feel like the hardest part. Our solicitors take the stress away, ensuring that you have a clear understanding of your financial position and help you plan for your future, post divorce.
What is a financial settlement?
A financial agreement during a divorce, is a legal document that contains all agreements made in relation to finances.
A financial settlement can be agreed in several ways, including through the drafting of a document by your solicitor, or through the courts.
What can be included in a financial settlement?
- All money, savings, investments and life insurance
- Property
- Cars
- Pensions
- Businesses
- Household contents
- Personal items
- Debts, Loans and Credit Cards
When should you seek advice?
The earlier, the better. Whilst financial settlements can be straightforward, if there are lots of assets involved, they can be complex and require a lot of negotiation.
Contact our team today to get started.
Divorce Services
Meet Your Team of Divorce Solicitors
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Frequently Asked Questions about Divorce
Do I have to get divorced or can I just separate from my partner?
There is no requirement to legally divorce your partner unless you wish to get married to someone else.
If you choose to just separate you will remain legally tied to your partner, which will include your finances.
There is a process called ‘judicial separation’, which means you remain married but you legally separate. This will allow you and your ex-spouse to deal with most (but not all) financial claims. It is rare for people to opt for this; however, it is a possibility to consider.
What are the grounds for divorce in the UK?
Since 2022 when no fault divorce was introduced, you don’t need to provide grounds for your divorce.
Can you get legal aid for a divorce?
Yes – Legal aid is available for people going through a divorce.
At Grant Stephens Family Law, we don’t have a legal aid certificate and therefore can’t offer legal aid to anyone who is eligible. Our solicitors can help you determine whether you are eligible and can refer you to solicitors who do offer legal aid.
For more information about what is legal aid and who is eligible, read our article: What is legal aid?
Feeling a bit overwhelmed?
Don’t worry our team of friendly legal assistants are here to help you, just leave us your details and one of the team will call you back – free of charge, with no obligation.
Or if you prefer, call us now to speak to a member of the team immediately
Give us a call on 02920 679 333, or use the form below to request a call back
