Family Law | Howells Solicitors
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Family Law

Family Law Services

Our team of Family Law specialists are highly regarded in their field of work and have unrivaled experience in their specialisms.

The team are one of the largest in the South Yorkshire region and have accredited specialists dealing with divorce and separation, child care proceedings, domestic abuse, adoption, child abduction and disputes relating to children.

Our Family Law Solicitors have excellent relationships with specialist barristers, accountants, independent financial advisers, surveyors, medical specialists, counselors, agencies supporting children and survivors of abuse.

Speak to our team today

Our Solicitors believe in access to justice for all, and therefore offer affordable legal services including fixed fee packages. Furthermore, the team offer a free 30 minute consultation on your first visit. We offer flexible appointments to fit around your needs and they can be arranged fit around lunch breaks or work commitments.

Following your consultation, our charging system is transparent and we keep you informed at all times where you stand.

When the Family Law team take on your case we step in your shoes and help you through what can be the most distressing experience of your life; the breakdown of a relationship or the threat of the loss of your child. The specialists are compassionate, considerate and truly understand what you are going through.

The Family Law team make every effort to make you feel as comfortable as possible, and it’s important to remember that they are ordinary people like you, they just have a special set of skills.

How can we help?

Our Family Law specialists can support with:

Children Law
Civil Partnerships
Collaborative Law
Divorce and Separation
Divorce Financial Settlements
Domestic Abuse
Parent Disputes regarding Children
Unmarried Couples

Advice Guides

How to Achieve a ‘Good Divorce’

A Guide to Divorce & Separation

Do I need a solicitor to deal with my Divorce?

How Can I Support a Friend Suffering Domestic Abuse? – Ask an Expert

Civil Partnerships: Not just for same sex couples

What are your legal rights as a ‘Common Law Spouse’?

The Family Law team

The Howells Matrimonial team are one of the best in the country and one of the largest in South Yorkshire. It has been consistently highly ranked for family law work in the north, and is overseen by the hugely respected Alyson Siddall.

Call us on 0114 249 66 66 or contact online

Accredited Solicitors

One of the largest family law teams in the region

Free Initial Consultation

 

How can we help? Contact us today

Contact us and one of our advisors will be in touch to discuss your situation. We will take some initial information and if we can help, we will book you in for a consultation with a legal professional.

    Free Consultation

    Our Family Law team offer a free 30 minute consultation for new clients. We offer flexible appointments that can be arranged around your work schedule

    Our Family Law team are transparent with their prices and offer a variety of fixed fees. These can be found here.

    Family Law Articles

    Family Law
    ‘No Fault Divorce’ is now an option for couples

    06 Apr , 2022

    Howells Solicitors

    There has been a much awaited-for change in divorce proceedings. From 6th April 2022, we saw the introduction of the ‘no fault divorce’.This will allow couples to apply for a divorce without having to assign blame under the original grounds...

    #no fault divorce
    Family Law
    Do I need a solicitor to deal with my Divorce?

    30 Dec , 2021

    Howells Solicitors

    If you find yourself in the situation where your marriage breaks down and both parties agree to divorce either of you can start the divorce process. (more…)
    Family Law
    How to Achieve a ‘Good Divorce’

    29 Nov , 2021

    Howells Solicitors

    One of the big worries when entering divorce proceedings is how much stress it will place on the separating couple and the impact it will have on any children. We hear a lot about the nightmare divorces, but can there...
    Family Law
    What are the grounds for divorce?

    19 Nov , 2021

    Howells Solicitors

    As the current law stands, to apply for a divorce you must do so on the grounds that the relationship has irretrievably broken down by giving one or more of the following 5 reasons, otherwise known as ‘facts’. (more…)
    Family Law
    Methodist Church permits same-sex marriages

    08 Jul , 2021

    Howells Solicitors

    The Methodist Church has become the largest religious denomination in Britain to permit same-sex marriages, in a much welcomed announcement on 30th June 2021. (more…)
    Family Law
    The darker side to football and domestic abuse

    Howells Solicitors

    With passions heightened as England head to the final of the Euros, the darker side to this is the impact that this can have on domestic abuse. (more…)
    Family Law
    Date is announced for No-Fault Divorce

    09 Jun , 2021

    Howells Solicitors

    We are very pleased to hear that “no-fault divorces” will come into force on 6th April 2022. This week, Ministers have announced that the Divorce, Dissolution and Separation Act 2020, will allow married couples to divorce without assigning blame. These...
    Family Law
    What is a financial settlement?

    06 May , 2021

    Howells Solicitors

    Once you’ve taken the decision to divorce you will need to reach a formal financial settlement. A financial settlement is legally binding and covers the specifics of how to deal with your financial assets following separation. (more…)
    Family Law
    4th of January – National Divorce Day

    01 Dec , 2020

    Howells Solicitors

    The Christmas holidays can create pressure within relationships; with many choosing to stay together until the end of the family season, however, early January is when many couples reach the end of their tether. The first Monday of January –...
    Family Law
    What is a Cohabitation Agreement? – Ask an Expert

    27 Nov , 2020

    Howells Solicitors

    “I’m moving in with my partner and we intend to buy a house together. My parents have suggested I contact a Solicitor to protect myself legally. How can a Solicitor help?” (more…)
    Family Law
    How Can I Support a Friend Suffering Domestic Abuse? – Ask an Expert

    20 Nov , 2020

    Howells Solicitors

    “I am worried that my friend is suffering domestic abuse in her relationship. How can I help her and are you able to offer any advice on how I can support her ?" (more…)
    Family Law
    What are the rules regarding Support Bubbles?

    02 Nov , 2020

    Howells Solicitors

    The new lockdown across England means people must stay home unless for specific reasons. The Government has declared that support bubbles will remain in place but many are confused by the rules. (more…)
    Family Law
    Ask an Expert – Will a divorce financial settlement affect my benefits?

    22 Oct , 2020

    Howells Solicitors

    “I receive Tax Credits and other benefits and allowances, will a lump sum settlement from my divorce affect what I can claim?” Speak to our Team Today (more…)
    Family Law
    Amicable Divorce – Ask an Expert

    19 Oct , 2020

    Howells Solicitors

    “Me and my partner have decided to get Divorced and have made agreements how we will divide everything up, including time with our Children. What would you suggest I do next?” (more…)
    Family Law
    A Guide to Divorce & Separation

    09 Sep , 2020

    Howells Solicitors

    You may be considering, or have decided to, end your marriage and file for Divorce. The Divorce process is an emotionally challenging experience, complicated and often heart breaking. When a couple decide to separate and begin the Divorce process they...
    Family Law
    What are your legal rights as a ‘Common Law Spouse’?

    29 Aug , 2020

    Howells Solicitors

    There still seems to be a lot of confusion and misconception surrounding the idea of a ‘common-law spouse’.  The question to consider is whether there is such a thing? (more…)
    Family Law
    No-Fault divorce set to become reality

    01 Jul , 2020

    Howells Solicitors

    We are pleased to announce that at long last “no-fault divorce” is set to become reality after the Divorce, Dissolution and Separation Bill received Royal Assent last week. Head of the Family Department Alyson Siddall says: “This is very welcome...
    Children Law
    Sharing custody during the Coronavirus outbreak – Who gets the children?

    02 Apr , 2020

    Howells Solicitors

    The Government has announced new rules which restricts when  people can leave their homes and meet socially. This has resulted in schools across the UK closing. This is to ensure that social distancing measures are enforced, and the spread of...
    Family Law
    Domestic Violence Cases during the Coronavirus Outbreak

    30 Mar , 2020

    Howells Solicitors

    Not a pleasant topic to discuss but the reality is that the self-isolation rules set out by the Government tier 3 policy, to tackle the Coronavirus outbreak, will likely increase the amount of domestic violence cases in the UK. (more…)
    Family Law
    Coronavirus likely to spark a rise in Divorce

    26 Mar , 2020

    Howells Solicitors

    As many people are advised to self-isolate by the Government during the outbreak of COVID-19 (Coronavirus), we are likely to experience an increase in Divorce matters after the storm has calmed. (more…)
    Children Law
    Coronavirus and the effects on families and children in care or ongoing care proceedings – FAQ’s

    25 Mar , 2020

    Howells Solicitors

    With the current Government guidance about what we should be doing to stay safe constantly updating, this is a very stressful and uncertain time. (more…)
    Family Law
    Barnsley Families Supported as New Family Law Specialist Joins Howells Solicitors

    23 Jan , 2020

    Howells Solicitors

    This week we boast a new jewel in our crown, as senior solicitor and collaborative law specialist, Wendy Bailey, joins our matrimonial team in Barnsley. With 27 years’ experience of Family Law in the South Yorkshire region, Wendy, who is...
    Family Law
    Civil Partnerships: Not just for same sex couples

    09 Dec , 2019

    Howells Solicitors

    Civil Partnerships now allow mixed sex, as well as same sex, couples to register. However what is the difference between a civil partnership and marriage? (more…)
    Family Law
    DIY Divorce – Are They Worth It?

    28 Oct , 2019

    Howells Solicitors

    A rising number of couples are resorting to DIY services in an attempt to reduce the costs of divorce. Filing for a divorce independently can cost as little as £550, which is the court fee for a divorce petition. However...
    Family Law
    Howells Boost Matrimonial Department with Addition of New Family Law Specialist

    04 Oct , 2019

    Howells Solicitors

    At a time where many law firms in the region are struggling to grow their matrimonial department, Howells are thrilled to be expanding theirs. In October, not only are Howells celebrating their 40th anniversary, but they are celebrating another addition...
    Family Law
    Howells Solicitors Proudly Expands Family Team

    06 Sep , 2019

    Howells Solicitors

    South Yorkshire based Howells Solicitors has more than just 40 years in the legal sector to celebrate this year. Due to an increase of work into their matrimonial department, the firm have expanded their Family Law department which has resulted...
    Family Law
    ‘No Fault’ divorce a welcome change to divorce law

    10 Apr , 2019

    Howells Solicitors

    Welcome news this week when the government announced that there will be a long awaited change to divorce law. (more…)
    Family Law
    Howells LLP family law specialist honoured with Deputy District Judge position

    15 Mar , 2019

    Howells Solicitors

    Howells solicitors has more than just their 40th birthday to celebrate this year as they are very proud to announce that  their Partner and head of the children team, Sarah Walker, has been appointed as a Deputy District Judge by...
    Family Law
    What is the difference between Marriage and Civil Partnership?

    18 Jan , 2019

    Howells Solicitors

    With the announcement in October 2018 from the Government to introduce civil partnerships for mixed sex couples, we take a look at the difference between marriage and civil partnerships. (more…)
    Family Law
    Today Is Divorce Day

    07 Jan , 2019

    Howells Solicitors

    The first working Monday of the year is often referred to as 'Divorce Day'. The day is dubbed 'Divorce Day' as family lawyers tend to see a spike in divorce enquires on this day. (more…)
    Family Law
    Reforming the legal requirements of divorce

    12 Dec , 2018

    Howells Solicitors

    The Government is still consulting on reforming the legal requirements of divorce and moving away from the need for one party to blame the other for the breakdown of the marriage if the parties have lived together within the last...
    Family Law
    Divorcing couples reminded of the importance of pensions in addressing the division of matrimonial finances.

    13 Sep , 2018

    Howells Solicitors

    According to a report publicised by Age UK, thousands of pensioners are missing out on pension provision that would have helped them in retirement. (more…)
    Family Law
    Supreme Court prevents wife from obtaining divorce against her estranged husband

    25 Jul , 2018

    Howells Solicitors

    Today the Supreme Court has unanimously, although “with reluctance”, refused the appeal of Mrs Owens to obtain a divorce based upon her husband’s unreasonable behaviour. (more…)
    Family Law
    The end of a ‘meal ticket for life’ divorces

    19 Jul , 2018

    Howells Solicitors

    The Supreme Court on 18th July 2018 unanimously allowed the appeal of a husband in the case of Mills and Mills - after the Court of Appeal had agreed with the wife who sought increased periodical payments. In this case,...
    Family Law
    Government’s ban on heterosexual civil partnerships discriminatory

    28 Jun , 2018

    Howells Solicitors

    Couple win ruling at Supreme Court declaring Government’s ban on heterosexual civil partnerships discriminatory (more…)
    Family Law
    Courts bill: domestic violence cross-examination pledge

    10 Mar , 2017

    Howells Solicitors

    According to a fact sheet produced by the Government,  the lord chancellor will end the cross-examination of domestic violence victims and instead seek the use of other methods, for example virtual hearings in order to allow victims to take part...
    Family Law
    Divorce Refused in UK Courts

    17 Feb , 2017

    Howells Solicitors

    A woman has stated how “desperately unhappy” she is after being married for 39 years. Yet the UK Courts have refused to grant her a divorce. This case highlights the need to seek advice. Howells can offer a free half...
    Children Law
    82% of children of divorce would rather parents separate than ‘stay for the kids’

    24 Nov , 2015

    Howells Solicitors

    As part of the 'Family Dispute Resolution Week' that has been launched this week by Resolution - First For Family Law, a survey was carried out with over 500 young people aged 14-22 with experience of parental divorce or separation....
    Family Law
    Supreme Court judgment to impact on divorced couples

    19 Oct , 2015

    Howells Solicitors

    A recent judgment at the Supreme Court will have far-stretched implications for divorced and divorcing couples. In the cases of Alison Sharland and Varsha Gohil, both have been allowed to appeal their divorce settlement figures after evidence has arisen that...
    Family Law
    National Acclaim for Howells Family Lawyer

    15 Oct , 2014

    Howells Solicitors

    The skills of a Howells Family lawyer have been recognised by the UK’s leading family law group – Resolution.  Matrimonial Solicitor John Clegg, has recently gained Resolution accredited specialist status. John, who has been qualified for five years and specialises...
    Family Law
    Howells Family Partner qualifies as Mediator

    02 Jul , 2013

    Howells Solicitors

    Howells  has extended the services the family team can offer as Partner Alyson Siddall has now  qualified as a Resolution Trained Mediator. Alyson can offer clients who find themselves in dispute an alternative way forward to resolve their disputes together without...
    Family Law
    Howells Launches Fixed Fee Packages

    25 Mar , 2013

    Howells Solicitors

    Changes to publicly funded legal work will take effect from 1st April 2013. The withdrawing of funding for specific areas of law will mean that those on low incomes can no longer access legal advice for free unless in certain...

    What Do Our
    Clients Say?

    "I went to Howells for representation in a family matter. I was very anxious and felt overwhelmed with it all but Liz Forrest was amazing from beginning to end! She was very professional, knowledgeable and meticulous with her work and was extremely approachable and friendly. She is honest and kept me informed at every stage. Liz made the most stressful time of my life bearable and I would recommend her to anyone going through family court. The staff at Howells were also brilliant - very welcoming, friendly and approachable."

    Family Client
    2022

    "Going through a divorce is never easy but I cannot praise Alyson at Howells enough. Through a long, complicated and challenging divorce process, she managed the legal process with calmness, empathy and professionalism. I would recommend her and Howells to anyone in a similar situation."

    Divorce Client
    2021

    “Divorce is never nice. When you are in the thick of it and cannot see the wood for the trees, you need people around you who are experienced, professional and also sympathetic to your needs. People who can guide you along the way. Alyson Siddall and her team were every bit of this. Nobody can prepare you for the stresses and anxiety most people going through a divorce will endure. Having a friendly, straight talking shoulder to cry on, with a clear path to an exit is key. Professional to the end, but equally a joy to talk things though with. Many thanks again Alyson. I hope I never go though another ordeal like this, but if I do, I know where to come.”

    Divorce Client, April 2021

    I appreciate and realise all the work you are doing to help me and my children and no words can truly explain my gratitude to you and your team, thank you so much for all your hard work. We appreciate it very much.

    Family Law Client, 2020

    “I cannot speak highly enough of you & everyone I have come into contact with at Howells. Please could you especially pass on my thanks to Nicky who walked me to Court & arranged the special measures for the Financial Hearing & Heather in reception who called a taxi & allowed me to sit in reception with her afterwards.”

    Family Client – ME, March 2019

    "The lady on your Reception Heather, is such a credit to your company. She’s always so lovely and welcoming."

    Family Client – April 2019

    Very helpful got half hour free advice most friendly and very easy to talk to from receptionist to the solicitors yes would most definitely recommend any one to give them a call if needed advice

    Family Law Client, 2020

    "I have seen Mr John Clegg who helped me greatly. Lindsey Rawson who did my Will and then Louise Tissington who helped me revise my Will. Mr Hague who helped with my criminal charge and everybody at conveyancing department. All fantastic! The reception staff are great, polite, kind and really professional. Great Service!”

    Family Law Client, 2020

    I would like to thank Sharon Lockwood for all her expertise and help for the last few years and barrister Carl Fender. We got the result we wanted and I can't thank Sharon and Carl enough. Highly recommend Sharon Lockwood and Howell Solicitors as a whole. Brilliant service. 5/5 stars

    SA, Family Client, May 2018

    I am very happy to have chosen yourself and Howells to represent me. Thank you once more for your support, understanding and guidance through this difficult and delicate matter.

    Family Client, Nov 2014