Family Law Services and Family Legal Advice
When a marriage breaks down, we all know that the legal arrangements that need to be put in place can often be the last thing on your mind. But whether you need to sort a financial settlement, deal with arrangements for the children, need assistance with a divorce application, or generally need advice, DFA Law is here to help.
Our family lawyers in Northampton have a vast amount of experience in providing legal advice for divorcing and separating couples. We can help you reach an agreement that works for you, whether this is in a financial agreement or the arrangements that need to be put in place for the children. We also ensure that you fully understand the position and the law as it applies in your particular situation.
We understand that it is not just family law advice that our clients seek but also support and understanding at one of the most difficult times of their lives.
Our service and advice are tailored to each client and to each situation. We offer a sensible and measured approach, which ensures that our clients are well represented and their position supported. We pride ourselves on clear and honest family legal advice.
What is a family lawyer?
A family lawyer helps to manage legal arrangements following a separation. This includes divorce, child arrangements, and financial arrangements, in all its forms.
The Family Law Act 1996 is a law that sets out rules for family homes, protection from domestic abuse, and mediation. The Matrimonial Causes Act 1973 is the primary piece of legislation governing financial settlements and ancillary relief upon divorce in England and Wales.
The law can be complicated, and our lawyers can help you make sense of your options and help you decide the right approach for you. We promote a sensitive and non-confrontational approach to difficult family situations.
How can we help?
We offer family legal advice in the following areas:
- Divorce and dissolution of civil partnerships
- Financial settlements, including high net-worth cases
- Child arrangements
- Domestic abuse protection
- Pre- and post-nuptial agreements
- Cohabitation
DFA Law’s approach and expertise
The 2025 Legal 500 directory comments “The practice at DFA Law has a very strong ethical and personal approach to clients, backed with extensive knowledge of all aspects of divorce law and its complexities”
The family team’s broad expertise encompasses complex financial settlements, nuptial agreements, farming cases, children matters and cohabitee disputes. Rachel Adams leads the team and attracts praise as a “phenomenal legal advisor” who is “clear and direct with her advice from the outset”.
Our team includes members of Resolution, a group of family lawyers and other professionals committed to the constructive resolution of family disputes. They follow a code of practice that supports a sensitive and non-confrontational approach.
![[solicitor name] is listed as a Leading Lawyer by Wiselaw](https://www.dfalaw.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/Wiselaw-Leading-Lawyer-Rachel-Adams-320x272.png)
Frequently asked questions
How long does a divorce take?
Divorce proceedings take a minimum of 6 months. Following submission of the divorce application, there is a 20-week waiting and reflection period before you can apply for the conditional divorce order. The final order of divorce can be applied for 6 weeks after the conditional order, although it may be delayed if financial arrangements have not been dealt with. The standard fee is £628.00.
Can a divorce be defended?
It is possible to dispute a divorce, but only on very limited legal grounds, that generally do not apply to most people. You cannot dispute a divorce simply because you disagree with ending the marriage.
How are child arrangements dealt with?
If you can agree on arrangements relating to children, then the court does not need to become involved in the process at all. Most separating parents agree parenting options informally or via non-court options. If you cannot reach agreement, then it is possible to make an application to the court to determine the child arrangements. The standard application fee is £270.00.
What does the court take into account?
In children cases in England and Wales, the family court treats the child’s welfare as the paramount consideration above all else. When reaching a decision, the judge uses a legal guide called the Welfare Checklist (from the Children Act 1989). The court considers various key factors including:
- The wishes and feelings of the child
- The physical, emotional, and educational needs of the child, both now and in the future
- The likely effect of any change on the child
- Age, sex, background, and characteristics of the child
- Harm or risk of harm, specifically the risk of suffering abuse, neglect, or domestic violence, putting the child’s safety first
- The capability of each parent
Can you change a pre-nuptial agreement?
Yes, pre-nuptial agreements can be amended, or a post-nuptial agreement can be made if both parties agree. Pre-nuptial agreements are not legally binding in England and Wales, but the courts give them significant weight if they are fair and meet proper legal safeguards. Pre-nuptial agreements may be disregarded if circumstances have changed significantly since the signing of the agreement, one party did not freely enter into it, or it does not fairly meet the needs of one party.
We are here to provide a caring, holistic service at a time when you need support and compassion the most. To get in touch with one of our family law team, call 01604 609560 or e-mail info@dfalaw.co.uk.