Mon - Fri 8:30am - 7pm | Sat - Sun 9am - 5pm
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We are here to help between Boxing Day and New Year
0330 383 0319
Please note, we cannot offer Legal aid.
View our Christmas opening times
We are here to help between Boxing Day and New Year
Please note, we cannot offer Legal aid.
Our specialist family lawyers will stand by you
As experts in family law, we’re familiar with a range of family matters – and we have the understanding and expertise to support you and your family every step of the way.
read moreWe have a team of specialist family lawyers across England and Wales who provide expert, impartial advice to help resolve issues affecting families, from divorce to financial matters and dealing with domestic abuse.
Our team will provide you with advice and guidance that only comes from years of family law experience.
Together with our partner divorce coaches, mediators and other family law professionals, we build a knowledgeable, well-respected support network to give you the confidence to move forward with strength.
Featured family law services
The divorce process
Application
One or both spouses submit a divorce application to the court using the HMCTS Portal, citing irretrievable breakdown of the marriage without assigning blame.
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20-week reflection period
After the application is filed, and your former spouse has responded to the petition, a mandatory 20-week reflection period begins. During this time, spouses may also exchange financial information using Form E and address any necessary child arrangements, including including the time your children spend with you both.
Conditional order
After the reflection period, the applicant(s) apply for a Conditional order (previously known as Decree Nisi). The court reviews the case and, if satisfied, grants the order.
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6-week waiting period
Following the Conditional order, there is a mandatory 6-week waiting period before the final step can be taken.
Final order
After the 6-week waiting period, the applicant(s) may apply for the Final Order (previously known as Decree Absolute), officially ending the marriage.
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Average 9-12 months
If more than 12 months have elapsed between obtaining your conditional order and applying for your final order, you will have to submit a short statement to support your application, explaining the delay.
What is family law?
Family law is a broad area of legal practice that focuses on issues involving family relationships and lays out the rights of family members.
read moreWhile it is primarily associated with divorce proceedings, it covers many areas that impact on people’s personal and family life, including finances following separation, dealing with domestic abuse, child law, surrogacy, adoption and nuptial agreements.
We offer an award-winning service
What our clients say
Your local family law solicitors
At Stowe Family Law, we make family law more straightforward and know that each case is unique, needing tailored support. We guide our clients through the divorce procedure with compassion and care. They know they have the right group of professionals on their side.
Stowe Family Law - a trusted voice in the legal sector
Stowe Family Law - a trusted voice in the legal sector
Stowe Family Law - a trusted voice in the legal sector
We offer an award-winning service
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Christmas opening times
Christmas Eve
8:30am - 1:00pm
Christmas Day
Closed
Boxing Day
Closed
Saturday 27 December
9:00am - 5:00pm
Sunday 28 December
9:00am - 5:00pm
Monday 29 December
8:30am - 7:00pm
Tuesday 30 December
8:30am - 7:00pm
Wednesday 31 December
8:30am - 5:00pm
Thursday 1 January
Closed
Regular opening hours resume
Thursday 2 January
