Divorce.

Divorce Lawyers for Marriage Breakdown & Separation.

Our Divorce Lawyers & Solicitors are experts in the legal process of separation following a relationship breakdown.

Going through divorce proceedings can be a very difficult time for everyone involved, so it is important to have experienced lawyers guiding towards a fair outcome.

We understand that the cost of legal proceedings can be a daunting prospect. As a specialist family law firm, Lanyon Bowdler offers a range of flexible pricing options, including fixed fees, so you have a good idea how much things are likely to cost from the outset.

We support a wide range of individuals with a focus on divorce and family law in Shropshire, Herefordshire, and North Wales, but cover the whole of England and Wales.

Each case is unique, so it is important to seek advice that is tailored to your own circumstances. At the outset you will no doubt have dozens of questions, doubts, and concerns, but we’ll make sure everything is clear for you at every stage.

The Divorce Lawyers at Lanyon Bowdler have extensive experience helping clients with divorces in all manner of circumstances and are well-versed in the wide-ranging issues that can arise.

You can count on us to support and guide you, no matter what challenges or obstacles you are facing. Contact our family law team in Shropshire, Herefordshire, and North Wales today for a friendly chat about your situation, and to find out how we can help.

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How can Divorce Lawyers help?

It is vital to speak to a Divorce Lawyer at the earliest opportunity when you are considering divorce proceedings, so you fully understand the proper procedures.

Although the process has now been simplified, you can benefit from the experience of a divorce lawyer to guide you through the necessary steps, and receive legal advice for divorce that is tailored to your circumstances and your family’s interests.

We will support you from the initial divorce application to resolving disputes, managing court orders, negotiating financial arrangements, child arrangements and any other areas of consideration for your unique circumstances. The specialist lawyers here at Lanyon Bowdler will be able to talk you through the options available to you.

How is No Fault Divorce different?

The Divorce, Dissolution and Separation Act 2020 has introduced a much needed update for the procedure and terminology around Divorce Law. The most significant difference is the removal of the process that required the petitioner to prove the irretrievable breakdown of marriage, through at least one of five criteria, two of which – unreasonable behaviour and adultery – were blame based. It used to be necessary to back up these claims of valid ground for divorce with evidence.

Additionally, the respondent could contest the petition, rendering the process longer, more complex, and much more litigious and traumatic.

The new legislation aims to reduce the acrimony associated with blaming the other party for the breakdown of the marriage. If a couple has decided they wish to bring the partnership to an end, a joint application can be submitted, which should make the process quicker and easier.

The resolution of disputes – most importantly regarding children and financial matters – is also hoped to be made less contentious.

A 20-week reflection period between the filing of the initial application and the Conditional Order being available to be applied for, has been introduced. The Final Order can follow six weeks after the latter has been pronounced at the earliest. These orders functionally replace the Decree Nisi and Decree Absolute respectively.

For more detailed information about No Fault Divorce and how our family solicitors can help you, visit our Guide to No Fault Divorce.

Our Divorce Expertise

Our Divorce Lawyers are approachable and professional, and will always adopt a balanced and practical approach to negotiations, minimising conflict and working towards achieving a realistic, positive, and satisfactory outcome for you.

Our Family Law Team in The Legal 500

Recognised as one of the region’s leading family law firms by the 2024 edition of The Legal 500, a national guide that recommends legal practices.

The guide states: ‘Lanyon Bowdler has a strong reputation for its work on the full gamut of complex issues involving financial remedy, children and divorce. It is skilled at handling cases where there are business structures and trusts. On the children’s side, the group frequently advises on internal and external relocation cases, domestic violence and cases involving significant welfare issues.’

Chambers UK Family Law Specialists

The 2024 edition of Chambers UK the department is ranked in Band 1 for Shrewsbury & Surrounds and Band 2 for Hereford, Worcester & Surrounds and states: ‘Lanyon Bowdler Solicitors is a well-regarded firm. Its group represents clients in financial matters involving trusts, pensions and overseas assets, such as divorce proceedings and prenuptial agreements, with notable expertise in cases concerning farming families.

The team also supports clients in complex Children Act matters involving allegations of criminal behaviour and domestic abuse. The practice offers a range of dispute resolution options, including collaborative law services.’

Podcasts

In this episode you can listen here to Caroline Yorke from the Family team chat about alternative dispute resolution (ADR). It’s a process that helps couples navigate through a relationship breakdown in a way that can streamline or avoid court proceedings.

In this episode, she follows on from her previous podcast about ADR and talks about the processes involved in going to court if the financial aspects of a divorce can’t be settled between couples, including details about FDRs (Financial Dispute Resolutions).

In this episode, family solicitor, Lisa Grimmett is chatting with relationship therapist Adele Ballantyne about Collaborative Law. This is an alternative solution to mediation when resolving family disputes out of court.

In this episode, family solicitor Philippa Pearson chats with Suzanne Lowe from Talk Mediation about family law and mediation. They describe the process, which can take place face to face, or online. Suzanne has a specialist accreditation which enables her to speak directly to children, and feedback their wishes and feelings to the parents.

Your Divorce questions answered

How does the no fault divorce procedure work?

Firstly, you must submit a divorce application with a family court. Unlike the system in place before April 2022, neither the court nor your spouse can contest the application or refuse to process it. Only an acknowledgement from the receiving party must be issued, within 14 days, in the case of sole applications. If your spouse has already started proceedings, we can advise and represent you throughout the process as needed.

A 20-week reflection period will follow, at the end of which a confirmation of proceedings must be made. This time should ideally be used to sort out financial matters, arrangements for children and any other related issues; our expert team of Family Law Solicitors can help you reach a resolution to these issues and obtain the necessary Court orders.

The steps following the reflection period are:

  • Applying for the divorce by requesting a Conditional Order
  • Court review and Conditional Order
  • Financial Consent Order (if agreed and applicable)
  • Final Order

A financial order is legally binding, so it is important to agree to all terms and avoid breaches. For more information about the new no fault divorce procedures, please contact the team. Our solicitors for divorce proceedings will be happy to answer any questions you may have.

What is the process for LGBTQ+ divorces?

Since 2013, LGBTQ+ marriages are essentially treated equally to heterosexual marriages in the eyes of the law. No fault divorce brings more equality to divorce and dissolution for lesbian, gay, transgender, and same sex couples; notably, it effectively removes the reliance upon the outdated definition of adultery which was once one of the criteria to prove the irretrievable breakdown of the marriage.

Since 6 April 2022, non-heterosexual couples are able to apply individually or jointly for a no fault divorce.

Testimonials

What our clients say.

From the first contact, the team at Lanyon Bowdler gave a fast & efficient service. They were very friendly & gave me the confidence that I had found the right solicitors. The advice given & the fast responses were beyond my expectations. The matter was resolved in no time at all.

Martyn
via ReviewSolicitors

After the solicitor firm I was using for my divorce couldn’t get it settled in two years, I transferred to Lanyon Bowdler. Within seven months they got it completely finished and over with. They proactively pushed to get my case closed and were supportive throughout. Absolutely worthy to be called the best.

Simon
via ReviewSolicitors

Lanyon Bowdler managed my case very professionally and were very helpful during a difficult and challenging case both in a professional and personal capacity. I would highly recommend Lanyon Bowdler for all legal matters and would definitely engage in the future if the need arises.

Timothy
via ReviewSolicitors

I would not hesitate to recommend LB Solicitors to anyone needing guidance and representation for family law or divorce proceedings. My solicitor was thorough and diligent, balancing professional rigour with fairness, reasonableness and sensitivity. I feel this approach helped me to obtain a satisfactory settlement avoiding costly and unnecessary conflict.

Jon
via ReviewSolicitors

Since dealing with Lanyon Bowdler they have been diligent, efficient and at all times very helpful along with being structured in dealing with matters, fees and clarity on all levels. Thank you.

Michael
via ReviewSolicitors

I was clearly informed of progress step by step. The service you provided was very good.

Peter Weston
Shrewsbury

All work carried out effectively and efficiently.

Hubert Jones
via ReviewSolicitors

An excellent service with solicitors that you can talk to and who give you a clear understanding of all necessary legal implications and interpretations.

Eric
via ReviewSolicitors

From start to finish we had excellent service. Friendly, approachable and professional.

Carl Gittins
via ReviewSolicitors

Used Lanyon Bowdler for conveyancing and for legal advice – both solicitors I worked with were effective and professional. Law firm was fast and responsive to queries and clear pricing.

Samantha
via ReviewSolicitors

Very clear, concise advice and guidance, easy to understand.

Ian Jamieson
Telford

Good service provided throughout with clear communication throughout with all options explored.

Lee

I was impressed with the forensic approach to identifying, securing, assessing and presenting evidence over the two years that it took to finally resolve the issue.

Timothy
via ReviewSolicitors

I can thoroughly recommend the highly professional and supportive service received over the last few months.

Heather
via ReviewSolicitors

Responsive, supportive, approachable, clear and empathetic.

Lisa Thacker

Professional and prompt communication. Supportive and client focused.

Lisa Thacker
Jennifer M Whittall Ltd

Whenever I have had need to contact Lanyon Bowdler I have always received a fast, concise and friendly response.

Lee Mortimer
UK Case Management

Definitely would use Lanyon Bowdler again if I need the use of a solicitor.

Mark Bowkett
via ReviewSolicitors

Smooth and efficient service from very professional firm.

Tim
via ReviewSolicitors

We were particularly impressed with the quality of work, the speed and excellent communication.

Allenby Douglas Ltd
Oswestry

Very friendly and approachable. Very good advice

Ivor Brown
via ReviewSolicitors

Great Service; Lanyon Bowdler were excellent from the outset. Straightforward and easy process. I just sat back and waited.

Paul Rowe
via ReviewSolicitors

Everything has been professional, efficient and courteous throughout and we are very pleased, both with the service and with the eventual outcome of our case. Everything was first class and exceeded our expectations. Thank you again for providing such splendid service. It is really appreciated.

Mr N J & Dr S J Browne
Llanfyllin

Contact the Divorce Solicitors at Lanyon Bowdler

Many of our Divorce Lawyers at Lanyon Bowdler are members of the Law Society’s Family Panel and we have Accredited Specialists with Resolution, a national organisation of family lawyers, so you can be sure our lawyers are experienced in all aspects of family and children law.

Our aim is to achieve amicable resolutions swiftly, but if litigation is necessary, we have the experience and know-how to deal with the courts effectively.

Please give us a call for a friendly, confidential, chat about how we can help support you when you or your family need legal advice and representation. Please contact a member of the team or complete our online enquiry form.

By choosing Lanyon Bowdler for family law legal advice, you can rest assured that you have the best legal expertise on hand no matter what the situation. We are committed to providing exceptional levels of client care and will work closely and considerately with you to help find the best outcomes. Our team of family law solicitors has great experience in all areas of family law including a practising Collaborative Lawyer and close links to family mediation services.

We have offices in Shrewsbury, Bromyard, Conwy, Hereford, Ludlow, Oswestry, and Telford, so are able to act for clients all over Shropshire, Herefordshire, Mid and North Wales and across the Midlands (including Wolverhampton & Birmingham). As a leading full-service law firm, we can represent you wherever you live in England or Wales.

Our people

Meet the team.

Sue Hodgson
Sue Hodgson
Partner
Family Law
Jon Moriarty
Jon Moriarty
Partner
Family Law
Philippa Pearson
Philippa Pearson
Partner
Family Law
Amelie Gray
Amelie Gray
Legal Support Assistant
Family Law
Georgia Rowney
Georgia Rowney
Legal Assistant
Family Law
Nicholas Bridgewater
Nicholas Bridgewater
Trainee Solicitor
Family Law | Disputes & Court Claims | Commercial Dispute Resolution
Anne Lewis
Anne Lewis
Associate Legal Executive (FCILEX)
Family Law
Lisa Grimmett
Lisa Grimmett
Senior Associate Solicitor
Family Law
Prianka Muruhathas
Prianka Muruhathas
Solicitor
Family Law
Sonali Obhrai
Sonali Obhrai
Senior Associate Solicitor
Family Law
Caroline Yorke
Caroline Yorke
Associate Solicitor
Family Law
Fiona Cooper
Fiona Cooper
Legal Support Assistant
Family Law
Annie Priest
Annie Priest
Trainee Solicitor
Family Law
Kelly Reynolds
Kelly Reynolds
Solicitor
Family
Staci Robinson
Staci Robinson
Associate Solicitor
Family Law
Debbie Chatham
Debbie Chatham
Legal Support Assistant
Family
Molly O'Reggio
Molly O'Reggio
Legal Support Assistant
Family
Knowledge

Latest knowledge.

Blog

Financial Provision for Children: How does ...

Following the recent high profile case of Kyle Walker and Lauryn Goodman, the Court was tasked with making appropri...
Kelly Reynolds • 28 Aug 2024
Podcast icon Podcast

Parental Responsibility in Family Law – Staci Robinson

We discuss parental responsibility, a law surrounding the raising of children. ...
Published • 20 May 2024
Podcast icon Podcast

The Law Behind Predatory Marriages – Edward Rees and Claire Vale

People get married for many reasons but in cases of predatory marriages, the victim will be vulnerable....
Published • 15 Jan 2024
Podcast icon Podcast

The Pathfinders Pilot Scheme in North Wales for Children – Jon Moriarty and Caroline Yorke

Caroline and Jon, discuss the pathfinders pilot scheme, explaining how the new approach is designed to boost the voice o...
Published • 27 Nov 2023
Podcast icon Podcast

Appointing Guardians for Children in the Event of your Death – Sioned Williams and Caroline Yorke

Sioned and Caroline discuss the serious topic of appointing a guardian for your child or children in the event of your d...
Published • 20 Nov 2023
Podcast icon Podcast

Pitfalls and Problems in Family Law Cases – Jon Moriarty and Caroline Yorke

Caroline and Jon discuss the trials and tribulations that are found within family law cases....
Published • 13 Nov 2023
Podcast icon Podcast

Divorce and Pensions – Caroline Yorke and Ian Conlon

Caroline speaks with Ian Conlon from IWC Actuarial; an actuary specialising in providing expert reports in relation to f...
Published • 23 Oct 2023
Podcast icon Podcast

How to Help your Solicitor – Jon Moriarty and Caroline Yorke

Caroline and Jon explain how being prepared with key information and having relevant documents to hand may ultimately re...
Published • 09 Oct 2023
Blog

DIY Divorce and Pensions

Frequently, we are approached by a spouse who has already started a divorce application themselves and/or reached a...
Jon Moriarty • 12 Sep 2023
Blog

Do I Need a Court Order in Relation to the ...

You’ve started a divorce application, or are divorced, and you’ve reached an agreement about the financial settleme...
Jon Moriarty • 05 Sep 2023
Blog

The Re-Marriage Trap and Some Other Conside...

Following the introduction of “no-fault” divorce in England and Wales on 6 April 2022, spouses who are separating m...
Jon Moriarty • 29 Aug 2023
Blog

Pension Pitfalls – A Cautionary Tale For Th...

We have seen a number of cases where, following a final order being made by the court, the relevant documentation h...
Jon Moriarty • 22 Aug 2023
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