Divorce & Separation Lawyers in Scotland
The end of a marriage or civil partnership can be a very difficult time, not only for the separating parties but also for any children. There are often many matters that require being resolved before it is possible to secure the outcome of a divorce or dissolution.
Helping to make the process as straightforward as possible
We specialise in all types of divorce, dissolution and separation so whatever your situation, we are here to assist you. This may include financial, property and child welfare-related issues. We will discuss your circumstances with complete discretion and understanding before exploring the best options for you, helping to make the process as straightforward and painless as possible.
In any separation or divorce, the division of finances can be a complicated and difficult task. This may be due to there being several assets or debts/liabilities owned jointly, or in your sole names which will require to be untangled and divided on divorce or dissolution. We will help you to work through the complex legalities of these matters to make the process as smooth as possible. Our team of divorce and separation lawyers, based throughout Scotland with offices in Glasgow, Edinburgh, Inverness and Highlands and Shetland.
Our Family Law Team is recognised in the UK's leading independent legal directories, Chambers UK Guide to the Legal Profession and The Legal 500, where our Team is recognised as having "Recommended Lawyers" and "Leaders in the Field" in the area of Family Law.
The best advice at an emotionally difficult time
For more information on our family law services complete our simple online form, for an initial discussion or to request a callback.
Divorce & Separation during a Pandemic
The dynamics that play in relationships can be responsible for the breakdown of a relationship but also impact upon how the process of separation and divorce unfolds. Our Head of Family Law, Amanda Masson, explores these topics in conversation with Myra Eadie, family therapist.
Recognised for its broad coverage of family matters, offering expertise in divorces, cohabitation claims and child relocation matters. Also has experience in fertility law and associated issues, including adoption, surrogacy and assisted conception. Well practised in separations entailing bankruptcy issues and displays considerable capabilities in cross-border cases. Offers trained collaborative lawyers and mediators, in addition to skilled litigators.
One source praises the team as "creative and thoughtful" and adds that the lawyers "give a good service." Another interviewee says: "They have strong relationships with their clients, who are happy to take their advice because they respect and trust the lawyers."
Chambers UK 2021
I want to thank you for your help in getting me to this stage. Your great support and advice really kept me focused on the task in hand and I really appreciate that.
HM Client
Jenny SMith is highlighted by sources as "incredibly thorough" practitioner who is "meticulous but can also see the bigger picture." She advises on financial provision issues related to divorce and separation, often involving complex business assets and intra-UK jurisdictional aspects.
Chambers UK 2021
Excellent service – extremely tricky matters dealt with very well.
HM Client
Chambers UK 2021Karen Gibbons "has a real eye for detail and is very down to earth," according to a source. She advises across a broad range of family matters, including divorce, cohabitation claims, nuptial agreements and child arrangements. She is an accredited mediator and trained collaborative lawyer. One client says: "Karen was fantastic - she always kept me on the right track and I felt she really cared about my welfare during a difficult time."
I would like to thank you for everything that you did on my behalf. Your help and advice was excellent. I would recommend your services to anyone, and, if I get the opportunity, I will do so.
Mr McLeish
Amanda Masson acts on a range of financial provision disputes and also advises on issues around child relocation. She also has specialist expertise in issues concerning fertility, surrogacy and unconventional family structures. One source states: "She has strong relationships with her clients and is excellent technically."
Chambers UK 2021
9 things to consider when contemplating separation or divorce
You may be worried about whether you are making the right decision, if you are choosing the separation. If you did not instigate it, you might want the opportunity to speak to your partner in a controlled environment. Either way, it can be useful to attend counselling with your partner to see whether there is any chance of saving the relationship. That way, and even though you will probably still be feeling upset and anxious, you will feel that you have done all you can. You might also want to consider counselling for yourself, so that you are as well-resourced as possible. A key to a successful separation is finding ways to minimise the negative impact of it on everyone involved, and wherever possible finding a way forward that enables both you and your partner to feel as okay as possible about the future.
When you first separate, it is easy to feel overwhelmed. There will seem so much to do, and so much that you feel you do not know. If you have children you will be trying to manage their reaction whilst yourself feeling anxious and worried. Make sure you have your support network in place. The better resourced you are, the stronger you can be for yourself and for those around you. Tackle things bit by bit so that you are not trying to do too much. Your family lawyer will be able to talk you through the process and give you clear action points as well as explaining what he or she will be doing on your behalf. That way, you will feel reassured that there is a clear plan for the way forward.
Often, one of the first aspects which often needs tackled is making sure there are appropriate arrangements in place for paying bills and all the other costs associated with daily living. When a couple separate and one moves out there are then two households to support, but still on the same budget. That can be very worrying. The first step is to put together a list of your monthly income and then your usual monthly expenses. That way you will be clear about what you have and what you need. Next, there can be discussion about how best to ensure your needs are met. If your partner is reluctant to co-operate, then your family lawyer will be able to advise you on the steps that they can take to sort that out for you. If you are worried about how the mortgage or other liabilities will be paid, contact the providers as soon as possible to make them aware of your concerns.
Knowledge is power. Fear of the consequences of relationship breakdown and lack of knowledge about outcomes can be daunting for many people. Weighing the options before taking a decision that is suited to your own circumstances is essential. Arranging a consultation with a Family Law Specialist can provide valuable background information in relation to your legal stand point and the options open to you. The more you know, the easier separation will be.
Consider what you want for your short, medium and long term future. Do you want to remain in the matrimonial home or would you prefer a fresh start elsewhere? It is important you think about what you would like to happen, even at an early stage, as this can help you make decisions at a later stage as things progress.
It is not only legal advice that is important. You may want to consider advice from a financial advisor particularly if there is a possibility of a pension being shared as part of your separation/divorce. A specialist family solicitor will be able to highlight to you when input from a financial advisor would be appropriate.
It can be difficult to know when and how to tell your children about the decision to separate. It is important that children know that you are there to listen to them and that you understand that they may have many questions about what the future holds. Remember that there are many helpful resources available to assist separating parents in talking to their children about a change in family circumstances. Remember too that research shows that children can cope with parental separation well, as long as their parents approach the separation in a sensitive and mindful way. A solicitor with experience of dealing with cases involving children will be able to guide you through separation in a way that keeps the interests of your children at the centre of discussions.
There are various ways of resolving the issues which require to be addressed. Going to Court is often the last resort. Choosing the correct process is important, as this sets the tone for future progress. It is important to choose a solicitor who is qualified to give you information about the various processes available, helping you to choose the right process for your circumstances.
Just as it is important to choose the correct process, it is just as important to find a solicitor who is the right fit for you. As well as having specialist expertise and knowledge, it is essential that you are able to feel comfortable speaking to your solicitor openly and that you trust that they understand your aims.