(last modified February 19, 2025 @ 8:32am)

If you're considering divorce, our experienced divorce solicitors are here to support you through this challenging time. We'll guide you through every step of the process, from filing for divorce to sorting out financial settlements and child arrangements.

Whether you are in England or Wales, our experienced divorce and family law solicitors in Harrow are here to assist you with any family law issue.

Vanguard Solicitors are the best divorce solicitors in Harrow specialising in family law. Call us now on 0208 616 5535 for assistance with divorce proceedings.

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What does a divorce solicitor do?

Our divorce solicitors in Harrow advise and assist with divorce proceedings, from filing applications to settling finances and arranging child custody.

Our divorce and family law solicitors in Harrow deal with many family law issues including:

If you need advice or assistance with a UK family law issue, call our family law solicitors at 0208 616 5535 or email info@vanguardlaw.co.uk.

What is a no-fault divorce?

In April 2022, the Divorce, Dissolution, and Separation Act 2020 introduced no-fault divorce as a legal option in the UK.

A no-fault divorce allows you to end the marriage without needing to prove your spouse's fault or wrongdoing, such as adultery or unreasonable behaviour.

What are the grounds for divorce in the UK?

Under the new rules, the only ground for divorce in the UK is now the irretrievable breakdown of the marriage, where reconciliation is no longer an option.

The party filing for divorce simply needs to confirm that the marriage has irretrievably broken down without needing to prove any fault or wrongdoings by their spouse.

 There is no need to assign blame for the marriage breakdown, unlike previous grounds like adultery or unreasonable behaviour.

Can a family solicitor help with a no-fault divorce?

Our divorce law solicitors in Harrow can assist with a no-fault divorce by guiding you through the legal process and preparing a divorce application.

Here's how our divorce solicitors can assist:

  • Provide legal advice on the divorce process
  • Prepare divorce application and related paperwork.
  • File divorce applications and submit necessary documents.
  • Handle financial settlements, including asset, pension, and debt division.
  • Arrange child custody through a Child Arrangements Order.
  • Facilitate amicable agreements to avoid court disputes.
  • Ensure smooth completion of all legal formalities.

Call our divorce and family law solicitors in Harrow at 0208 616 5535 today for an initial consultation and help with your divorce application.

What are the key stages of divorce proceedings in the UK?

The divorce process in the UK involves several key steps from application to final order.

Here’s a breakdown of the stages involved in the divorce process:

  1. Decision to Make a Sole or Joint Application
  2. Application for Divorce
  3. Acknowledgement of Service
  4. Reflection Period (20 Weeks Cooling-Off Period)
  5. Conditional Order (Previously Decree Nisi)
  6. Financial and Child Arrangements (if applicable)
  7. Final Order (Previously Decree Absolute)

Decision to Make a Sole or Joint Application

You must choose between a sole application or a joint application with your spouse before starting the divorce process.

You should also consider the impact of the divorce, including legal, emotional, child, and financial aspects.

Application for Divorce

You or your spouse (or both jointly) submit a divorce application online or via post to the Family Court. A court fee of £593 is payable unless you qualify for financial help.

Your application must include your marriage certificate along with required details like your and your spouse’s full names and addresses.

Acknowledgement of Service

In case of sole application, the other spouse (respondent) receives the application and must respond within 14 days.

The court will email the divorce papers to your spouse if you provide their email address; if not, they will be sent by post.

If applying jointly, both parties confirm they wish to proceed.

Reflection Period (20 Weeks Cooling-Off Period)

After the application is accepted, there is a mandatory 20-week waiting period before moving to the next stage. This allows both parties time to reconsider and settle financial or child arrangements.

Conditional Order (Previously Decree Nisi)

After 20 weeks, the applicant(s) can apply for a Conditional Order, which is the court’s approval that the marriage can legally end.

If the Court is satisfied with the application and there are no disputes, the Court grants the Conditional Order.

Financial and Child Arrangements (if applicable)

During the divorce process, couples need to sort out financial settlements, property division, and child custody arrangements.

Agreements can be reached privately, through mediation, or via a Financial Order from the Court if disputes arise.

Final Order (Previously Decree Absolute)

After six weeks and one day from receiving the Conditional Order, the applicant(s) can apply for the Final Order.

Once granted, the marriage is legally dissolved, and both parties are officially divorced.

How long does the divorce process take in the UK?

The divorce process in the UK takes at least 7 months to complete, but it can take longer if financial, property, or child issues are involved.

This time frame remains the same whether you make a joint application with your spouse or apply for a divorce on your own.

How to choose the best divorce solicitor in Harrow?

To find the best divorce and family law solicitor in Harrow, consider several factors that will ensure they are the right match for your case.

Here’s a guide to help you make an informed decision:

  • Specialisation in Family Law
  • Approach and Communication Style
  • Location and Accessibility
  • Fees and Costs
  • Initial Consultation
  • Regulated by the SRA

Specialisation in Family Law

Family law is a complex area of law and it's best to choose a family solicitor who specialises in all aspects of family law. A family law solicitor with expertise in the field will ensure your case is handled effectively.

Approach and Communication Style

An effective solicitor should be easy to talk to and able to explain legal concepts in simple terms.

Given the emotional nature of family law, select a divorce solicitor who is both empathetic and professional, offering you the support you need.

Location and Accessibility

While divorce and family law solicitors can serve clients across the country, it may be advantageous to choose one based in Harrow, especially if your case requires knowledge of local courts and legal procedures.

Make sure they're easy to reach when you need them. This could be by phone, email, or in person.

Fees and Costs

Divorce solicitors can charge in different ways, typically either by the hour or with a fixed fee for specific services, such as divorce filing or consultations.

Call our divorce solicitors at 0208 616 5535 to discuss your case and ask for a cost estimate and how we charge.

Initial Consultation

Book an initial consultation to ensure you're comfortable working with them and that they handle family law issues similar to yours.

Regulated by the SRA

When selecting the best family law solicitor in Harrow, ensure they are registered with the Solicitors Regulation Authority (SRA) in the UK.

Vanguard Solicitors is authorised and regulated by the SRA, with registration number 626363.

Why choose Vanguard Solicitors?

  • We handle all family law matters: divorce, child custody, financial settlements, domestic violence, etc.
  • We protect your rights and advocate for your interests throughout the process.
  • Skilled in negotiation and mediation to achieve fair settlements and avoid litigation.
  • If needed, we represent you in court to secure the best outcome.
  • We manage all legal paperwork, ensuring accuracy and compliance.
  • We provide compassionate support to guide you through emotionally challenging situations.
  • We maintain transparent communication and explain legal matters clearly.
  • We are authorised and regulated by the Solicitors Regulation Authority (SRA).

How much does a divorce solicitor in Harrow cost?

Our divorce solicitors in Harrow offer fixed fees for simple family cases, while complex cases like financial disputes or child custody are billed hourly.

Costs vary depending on the nature of the family matter and the complexity of your case. Legal aid may be available in certain cases.

Book consultation with divorce solicitors

Book a 30-minute in-person or phone consultation with our divorce and family law solicitor in Harrow for just £50 to get expert legal advice on your family matters.

During the consultation session, we will discuss your matter in detail and advise you about the relevant laws, procedures, documents, time frame and costs. That will give you a clear understanding.

Our law firm is in Harrow, but we offer legal advice by phone to clients nationwide, so you don't need to be located in Harrow to get family law advice.

Contact a divorce solicitor in Harrow

Looking for expert divorce solicitors in Harrow? Contact our divorce and family law solicitors at 0208 616 5535 for assistance with your divorce.

There are several ways to contact our solicitors based in Harrow, London:

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