A cohabitation agreement is a legal document between unmarried couples who are living together or...
The breakdown of a relationship is one of the most difficult experiences you can face. Whether you are going through a divorce, dealing with disputes over children, or navigating separation as an unmarried couple, it is natural to feel overwhelmed and unsure of your next steps.
At CWJ, our family law solicitors in Orpington are here to help. We combine compassionate, personal support with clear, practical advice, so you always know where you stand and what to expect. Our team handles the full range of family law matters, from divorce and financial settlements to children arrangements and cohabitation disputes.
We are committed to helping you reach the best possible outcome, whether through negotiation, mediation, or representation in court. Whatever your circumstances, you can rely on our family lawyers to guide you through with care, clarity, and confidence.
Our solicitors can assist with…
Our family law team has extensive experience supporting clients across a wide range of matters, including:
- Divorce and separation
- Civil partnership dissolution
- Division of assets on divorce or dissolution
- Child maintenance and spousal maintenance
- Children arrangements
- Cohabitation
- Prenuptial agreements and postnuptial agreements
- Alternative dispute resolution
- Mediation
- Arbitration
- Domestic violence
- LGBTQIA+ family law
- Unmarried couples
Speak to our family law solicitors in Orpington, Kent
Family law matters are rarely straightforward, but with the right support, you do not have to face them alone. Our family law solicitors in Orpington, Kent, are ready to listen, advise, and act in your best interests from day one.
Call us today on 01689 887887 or fill in our simple enquiry form to arrange an initial consultation.
Divorce and separation
Going through a divorce or separation can be emotionally and financially draining. Our solicitors will guide you through each stage with sensitivity and focus, helping you reach a fair resolution as smoothly and swiftly as possible.
Civil partnership dissolution
Dissolving a civil partnership involves many of the same legal steps as divorce. Our team has experience helping same-sex couples navigate this process and reach settlements that properly reflect their circumstances and contributions.
Division of assets on divorce or dissolution
Reaching a fair financial settlement is often the most complex part of any separation. Our solicitors will work to protect your interests, whether that involves property, pensions, business assets, or savings.
Child maintenance and spousal maintenance
Our team can advise on both child and spousal maintenance, helping you to reach arrangements that are fair, sustainable, and in the best interests of your family going forward.
Children arrangements
When couples separate, agreeing arrangements for children is the priority. Our solicitors can help you reach agreements on where children live, contact arrangements, and other important decisions, always placing the child’s welfare at the centre of everything we do.
Cohabitation
Living together does not afford you the same legal protections as marriage. Our solicitors can advise cohabiting couples on their rights and help you draft a cohabitation agreement that protects both parties.
Prenuptial agreements and postnuptial agreements
Prenuptial and postnuptial agreements can provide clarity and financial protection for both parties. We will help you draft an agreement that is fair, legally robust, and tailored to your individual circumstances.
Alternative dispute resolution
Court proceedings are not always the right answer. As members of Resolution, we actively promote alternative dispute resolution (ADR) to help you reach an agreement without the cost and stress of litigation.
Mediation
Mediation can offer a constructive way to resolve disputes with the help of a neutral third party. Our team can advise on the mediation process and help you prepare effectively, so you approach it with confidence.
Arbitration
For more complex disputes, arbitration provides a binding resolution outside of court. Our solicitors can advise on whether arbitration is right for your situation and represent your interests throughout the process.
Domestic violence
If you are experiencing domestic violence, your safety is the priority. Our solicitors can act quickly to help you obtain an injunction or non-molestation order, and we will support you at every step of the way.
LGBTQIA+ family law
We are proud to support LGBTQIA+ clients across all family law matters, including same-sex divorce, civil partnership dissolution, surrogacy, and adoption. Our team provides inclusive, respectful advice tailored to your individual circumstances.
Unmarried couples
Separating as an unmarried couple can raise complex legal questions about property and finances. Our solicitors can help you understand your rights and explore your options, giving you the clarity you need to move forward.
Our family law solicitors’ expertise
Our family law department is led by Claire Schneck, a Partner and one of the most respected family law solicitors in Kent. Claire has led the department since 2008 and is recognised by Chambers & Partners as a Band 2 leading individual for family law in Kent.
She is also listed as a Noteworthy Individual in the Legal 500, with expertise in complex financial disputes involving the Trusts of Land and Appointment of Trustees Act 1996 (TOLATA), nuptial agreements, and international assets.
Legal 500 2026 describes our practice as ‘capable, solid and reliable’, noting that we specialise in financial remedy matters involving extensive marital assets, including international property holdings.
Our solicitors’ fees
We are committed to transparency when it comes to fees. Before your matter begins, we will provide a full breakdown of expected costs so there are no unwelcome surprises at any stage.
For more complex cases, we will agree a clear fee structure in advance and keep you updated throughout. If you have any questions about costs, please get in touch and we will be happy to help.
Frequently asked questions about family law
How will our assets be divided?
Courts consider all marital assets, including property, pensions, and savings. Key factors include the length of the marriage, both parties’ ages and health, earning capacity, and the needs of any children.
The starting point is typically an equal division, but courts can depart from this based on the specific circumstances of each case. Our solicitors can help you understand what a fair outcome might look like for you.
Can I force my wife/husband out of the house?
In some circumstances, yes. A court can issue an occupation order requiring your spouse to leave the family home, particularly where there is evidence of domestic violence or abuse. Our solicitors can advise on whether you are eligible to apply and can act quickly on your behalf if you are in an urgent situation.
What are the grounds for a divorce?
Under the Divorce, Dissolution and Separation Act 2020, the sole ground for divorce is that the marriage has irretrievably broken down. You no longer need to prove fault. Either or both parties can apply, provided you have been married for at least one year and the marriage is legally recognised in England and Wales.
Will I have to pay child maintenance?
If your child lives primarily with your former partner, you will likely be required to make child maintenance payments. The amount is based on your income, the number of children, and how many nights the children spend with you. The Child Maintenance Service (CMS) provides an online calculator to help you estimate likely contributions.
How much does a family law solicitor cost in Orpington?
The cost varies depending on the complexity of your case and how it is resolved. We will always be upfront about fees and provide a full breakdown before work begins, and we will keep you informed of any changes as your case progresses. Get in touch to discuss your situation and we can give you a clearer picture.
What rights do unmarried couples have when separating?
Unmarried couples do not have the same automatic legal rights as married couples on separation. There is no automatic entitlement to a share of your partner’s assets. However, you may have claims under property law, particularly if you have made financial contributions to a shared property. Our solicitors can help you understand your position and protect your interests.
Can I get legal aid for family law matters?
Legal aid for family law matters is limited and means-tested. It may be available in cases involving domestic violence or where children are considered at risk. Our solicitors can help you understand whether you might qualify and, if legal aid is not available to you, we can explore alternative funding options together.
Speak to our family law solicitors in Orpington, Kent
Family law matters are rarely straightforward, but with the right support, you do not have to face them alone. Our family law solicitors in Orpington, Kent, are ready to listen, advise, and act in your best interests from day one.
Call us today on 01689 887887 or fill in our simple enquiry form to arrange an initial consultation.