Matrimonial and Family Law

The matrimonial team at Berry & Berry are specialists in their field and offer advice in all aspects of family law. The department includes an Advanced member of the Law Society’s Family Law Panel and Children’s Panel, a Resolution Collaborative Family Lawyer, accredited specialists of Resolutions, and members of Resolution. We are committed to helping people sensitively resolve the issues arising out of relationship breakdown in a constructive fair and reasonable way. We can assist in the following areas:

Divorce and Separation

When a relationship has broken down we can assist in drafting separation agreements, dealing with the administrative procedures in obtaining a divorce or judicial separation and ensure that any problems are quickly dealt with and that proceedings are completed as quickly as possible.

Children and Child Protection

Where children are involved in either separation or divorce, it is essential that they suffer as little as possible. We can advise on how to ensure that they are properly cared for. We can assist in mediation which is often the best way to resolve any disputes that arise but equally can assist in any court proceedings that are required to protect and provide for your children.

Financial Arrangements

Whether you are married or not, when a relationship breaks down financial arrangements will need to be carefully assessed. We can provide expert advice on how to achieve reasonable outcomes taking into account property owned by the parties (either jointly or in one parties sole name), pension provision, business assets and income from all sources. We can combine this with the advice of our business, tax planning and property departments to ensure that every important aspect of your situation has been taken into account.

Wherever possible, we will assist you in reaching an agreement by way of negotiation without the need for contested Court proceedings.

Domestic Violence

In the event that issues of domestic violence arise we can advise you and provide assistance in obtaining the protection of the Court by way of injunction Orders We can also make sure that you feel safe in your own home by advising on the remedies available.

Collaborative Law

Collaborative law is a new way of dealing with the breakdown of a relationship. It is designed for the parties involved to work as a team with their lawyers to reach a solution which minimises hurt and loss and upholds communication between the parties. It is an attempt to resolve issues without the need to attend Court.