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Going through a relationship breakdown is one of the most emotionally challenging things you can face. Whether you’re dealing with divorce, separation, questions about your children, or the financial implications of splitting from a partner, having the right legal support makes a real difference.
At SMR Solicitors, our family law team combines practical legal expertise with a genuinely sensitive approach. We take the time to understand your situation and explain your options in plain English, so you can make informed decisions at every stage. Our focus is on reaching fair, workable outcomes as efficiently as possible, minimising stress and, wherever we can, avoiding unnecessary conflict.
We support clients across West Sussex from our offices in Bognor Regis, Chichester, East Wittering, and Selsey with a full range of family law services, including:
- Divorce and separation
- Children and parental matters
- Financial settlements
- Relationship agreements
- Civil partnership dissolution
Contact our family law solicitors for a free 20-minute consultation
We offer a free 20-minute initial consultation so you can talk through your situation and find out how we can help, with no obligation to proceed.
- BOGNOR REGIS - 01243 860323
- CHICHESTER - 01243 780211
- EAST WITTERING - 01243 671782
- SELSEY - 01243 602832
Our family law services
Divorce and separation
Divorce is rarely straightforward, and it’s important to have a solicitor who can guide you through the process clearly and calmly. We advise on all aspects of divorce and separation, from the initial application through to financial settlements and arrangements for children.
Our team also has experience handling more complex situations, including high net worth divorce involving significant assets, businesses, or overseas interests, and military divorce, which raises specific considerations around service pensions and postings. Whatever the circumstances, we’ll work with you to protect your interests and reach a resolution you can move forward from.
Children and parental matters
Decisions about children are often the most sensitive aspect of any separation. Our child law solicitors support parents in reaching arrangements that put children’s wellbeing first, whether that’s agreeing on where a child lives, how much time they spend with each parent, or how important decisions are made.
We can advise on child arrangements orders where agreement can’t be reached, and on child maintenance to ensure financial responsibilities are clearly set out. We also advise grandparents who are seeking to maintain a relationship with their grandchildren following a family breakdown.
Financial settlements
Sorting out finances after separation is one of the most significant steps in moving on. Our financial settlement solicitors can help you reach a fair agreement covering property, savings, pensions, and other assets.
We work to achieve settlements that reflect your individual circumstances, negotiating on your behalf where needed and ensuring any agreement is properly documented and legally binding. Getting financial arrangements right from the outset helps to prevent costly disputes further down the line.
Relationship agreements
Not all family law matters arise from breakdown. Planning ahead with the right legal agreements can protect you and your partner and prevent uncertainty in the future.
We advise on prenuptial agreements for those planning to marry, as well as cohabitation agreements for couples living together who want to clarify their financial arrangements. Where a relationship has broken down but divorce isn’t yet appropriate, we can also draft a separation agreement to set out agreed arrangements clearly and reduce the risk of future conflict.
Civil partnership dissolution
Dissolving a civil partnership follows a similar process to divorce, but with some important differences in how certain legal provisions apply.
Our solicitors have experience guiding clients through civil partnership dissolution, advising on financial settlements, children’s matters, and any other issues that arise. We’ll make sure you understand the process fully and feel supported throughout.
How we support you through family matters
We understand that no two family situations are the same. From your first conversation with us, we take the time to listen carefully and understand what matters most to you. We’ll give you clear, honest advice and keep you informed at every stage, so you always know where you stand.
Our team is approachable and responsive, and we offer appointments by phone, email, video call, or in person at any of our four West Sussex offices. We’re also a member of Resolution, an organisation of family law professionals committed to a constructive, non-confrontational approach to resolving family issues.
Family mediation and alternative dispute resolution
Going to court isn’t always the right answer, and in many family law matters it isn’t necessary. Mediation and other forms of alternative dispute resolution (ADR) can be a more cost-effective and less stressful way to reach agreement, particularly where you want to preserve a working relationship with the other party, for example, where children are involved.
Our solicitors can advise on whether mediation is appropriate for your situation and support you before, during, and after the process. If matters do need to be resolved through the court, we’ll represent you clearly and efficiently, always keeping your objectives in focus.
Understanding family law costs
We know that cost is a genuine concern for many clients, and we’re committed to being transparent about fees from the outset. We’ll give you a clear estimate of costs before we begin any work and keep you updated if anything changes.
Family law costs vary depending on the complexity of your case and the level of work involved. Straightforward matters may be dealt with at a fixed fee, while more complex cases, such as contested financial settlements or disputed child arrangements, are typically charged on an hourly rate. We’ll always discuss the likely costs with you upfront and recommend the most proportionate approach for your circumstances.
Why choose SMR Solicitors for family law?
SMR Solicitors has been supporting clients across West Sussex with sensitive, practical family law advice for many years. Our solicitors combine legal expertise with a genuine understanding of how difficult these situations can be, and we’re committed to making the process as smooth and stress-free as possible.
With family law solicitors in Bognor Regis, Chichester, East Wittering, and Selsey, we’re well placed to support clients across the region. Whether your matter is straightforward or complex, we’ll work with you every step of the way.
Frequently asked questions about family law
What does a family law solicitor do?
A family law solicitor advises and represents clients on legal matters arising from personal relationships, including divorce, separation, child arrangements, and financial settlements. They can help you understand your rights, negotiate with the other party, draft legal agreements, and represent you in family court proceedings if needed.
Beyond the legal work, a good family solicitor also acts as a steady, practical guide during what can be a very unsettling time.
How much do family law solicitors charge?
Costs depend on the complexity of your case and the amount of work involved. We aim to be transparent about fees from the start, providing clear estimates before any work begins. Simpler matters may be handled for a fixed fee, while more involved cases are typically charged at an hourly rate. We offer a free 20-minute initial consultation so you can find out where you stand before committing to anything.
Do I need a solicitor for family court?
You’re not legally required to have a solicitor to attend family court, but having one is strongly advisable, particularly where children or significant financial assets are involved. A solicitor can help you prepare your case, understand court procedures, and present your position clearly. Without legal advice, it’s easy to overlook important issues that could affect the outcome.
Can family matters be resolved without going to court?
Yes, and in many cases this is the preferred route. Negotiation, mediation, and other forms of ADR can resolve a wide range of family disputes without the need for court proceedings, often more quickly and at lower cost. We’ll always explore non-court options first and recommend the approach that’s most likely to achieve a fair outcome for you.
How long do family law cases typically take?
Timescales vary considerably depending on the nature of the matter. An uncontested divorce can be finalised in a matter of months, while contested financial settlements or complex children’s cases may take longer. We’ll give you a realistic indication of timescales from the outset and work proactively to progress your case as efficiently as possible.
Do you offer legal aid for family law matters?
Legal aid for family law matters is now only available in a limited range of circumstances, such as cases involving domestic abuse. We’ll always discuss funding options with you at the outset and help you understand what’s available. Where legal aid isn’t applicable, we’ll work with you to find a cost-effective approach that meets your needs.
Speak to our family law team today
To discuss your situation and find out how we can help, please get in touch to arrange your free 20-minute consultation with one of our family law solicitors.
