The cost varies depending on the complexity of your case. We offer transparent pricing and will provide a clear breakdown of fees during your initial consultation. Fixed fees are available for divorce – £650 plus VAT and the court fee for the Applicant, and £350 plus VAT for the Respondent, where matters are not disputed.

In most cases, no. The majority of parents reach an agreement between themselves or with the help of mediation, and the court expects you to have considered mediation before making an application. Where agreement isn’t possible – or where there are safeguarding concerns – we can apply to the court for a Child Arrangements Order. Family matters for this area are heard at the Leicester County Court and Family Court Hearing Centre, around 18 miles away.

A Child Arrangements Order is a court order setting out who a child lives with, who they spend time with, and when. It replaces the older terms “residence” and “contact”. The court’s only test is what is in the child’s best interests, and it will not make an order at all unless doing so is better for the child than making no order.

Grandparents do not have an automatic right to contact, but they can apply to the court for permission to make an application, and permission is commonly granted where there has been a real relationship with the child. We can advise you on your prospects honestly before you spend money on an application.

Legal separation, formally known as judicial separation, allows spouses to live apart and obtain formal court recognition of their separation without legally ending the marriage. Divorce legally dissolves the marriage, allowing the parties to remarry.

We are specialist family lawyers with extensive experience helping clients across Melton Mowbray, Leicestershire and Rutland. We offer practical, compassionate advice and clear communication throughout what can be a difficult time – from a local office, with a named solicitor you will actually speak to.