Our family law solicitors understand how important it is to approach family legal matters with care and
sensitivity while providing practical solutions
that protect your interests and the wellbeing
of your loved ones.
At HCB we offer specialist support across all areas of family law, including divorce and arrangements for children. We recognise that these situations can be among the most challenging and significant moments in life so our dedicated and experienced team is here to guide you with integrity and professionalism, ensuring you achieve a fair and just resolution.
Our family law solicitors advise on:
Divorce and Separation
Arrangements relating to children
Finances
Prenuptial agreements
Civil Partnerships
Domestic Violence
International Cases
Client care is central to the service we provide and is one of our greatest strengths. We offer clear and jargon free legal advice so you can understand your position and the options available to you. We will support you at every stage as you decide the best way forward for your case.
Our Family Services
Divorce and Separation
If you are facing divorce, we can help you every step of the way.
No fault divorce allows couples in England and Wales to bring a marriage to an end without placing blame on either party. Since the change in the law in April 2022 there is no need to give reasons for the separation. This has been a welcome development as it helps reduce conflict and keeps costs down.
The divorce process involves preparing and submitting the application, acknowledging the application where needed, applying for the Conditional Order and then applying for the Final Order.
We understand that this can be a very stressful stage in life. With many years of experience and a genuine commitment to supporting our clients, we will guide you through every step with professionalism and care.
Arrangements for Children
Disagreements about where children live and how they spend their time can be deeply stressful. Our team provides calm and expert guidance to help parents reach practical arrangements that place the children’s welfare first. A constructive approach is vital, as most families will continue to communicate for many years, and our solicitors draw on their extensive experience to support you with empathy and clear professional advice.
We regularly assist with matters such as relocation within the UK or abroad, taking children overseas for holidays, and arrangements for grandparents. We also advise on Schedule 1 applications, which deal with financial provision for children whose parents are not married or in a civil partnership.
Our aim is always to minimise conflict, encourage positive communication and help you achieve a fair and workable outcome that supports your children’s long term wellbeing.
Financial Matters
Financial matters are often the most detailed part of a divorce or the dissolution of a civil partnership. Expert advice is essential to protect your assets, income and pensions. We can negotiate a fair financial settlement on your behalf and advise on alternatives to court such as mediation or arbitration. In most cases a referral to mediation must be made before making a court application where it is safe and suitable to do so.
Our aim is always to resolve matters constructively without going to court. If this is not possible, our team will represent you with confidence and a clear strategy.
We have extensive experience with complex and high value financial arrangements. Every case is approached individually and we tailor our advice to your needs. Our work includes supporting business owners, clients with significant public sector pensions, high profile individuals and parents who have stepped away from work to care for their families.
Throughout the process we provide reassurance, clarity and practical guidance to help you move forward with confidence.
Living Together and Pre-Nuptial Agreements
Many couples wish to protect their assets, whether they are at the beginning of their relationship, have received a financial gift or inheritance, or have spent many years building their savings. These agreements provide clarity and reassurance should the relationship come to an end in the future.
We guide clients through these discussions in a calm and constructive way, helping you reach an arrangement that reflects your priorities while keeping communication positive. With our specialist knowledge and careful approach, we will support you in safeguarding your interests and achieving an agreement that gives you confidence for the future.
Civil Partnerships
Our team provides clear and supportive advice on all aspects of Civil Partnerships. Whether you are considering entering into a Civil Partnership or are facing a separation, we are here to guide you with practical solutions and a steady approach.
If you are preparing to formalise your relationship, we can help you understand your legal rights and responsibilities, along with any financial considerations that may arise in the future. Many couples also choose to put an agreement in place that sets out how assets should be treated if the relationship ends. We can prepare this for you and ensure it reflects your wishes with clarity and fairness.
When a Civil Partnership comes to an end, we offer comprehensive advice on the process of dissolution, financial arrangements and any issues relating to children. Our aim is always to minimise conflict and help you reach a balanced outcome that supports your long term interests.
You will have the support of specialists who understand the emotional and practical challenges involved. With our combination of experience, care and professionalism, we will give you the guidance you need to move forward with confidence.
Domestic Violence
Facing domestic violence or controlling behaviour can be distressing and isolating. Our team is here to protect your safety and provide clear guidance at a time when support is essential. We handle every case with discretion, sensitivity and steady professional care.
We can act quickly to secure protection through the courts, including orders that prevent further harm or set out who can remain in the family home. We will explain your options in clear terms so you know what steps you can take and what to expect next.
Every situation is different, and we take the time to understand your concerns and the support you need. We can also help you connect with trusted agencies and services that offer additional assistance.
Our focus is your wellbeing. You will not face this alone, and we will guide you towards a safer and more secure future.
Mediation and Arbitration
Mediation and arbitration provide constructive alternatives to court, helping resolve family issues with less conflict, more control and often lower cost.
Mediation creates a supported space for discussing arrangements for children or financial matters with the help of an independent mediator. It encourages open communication and can lead to practical and balanced agreements.
Arbitration is a more formal option where an independent arbitrator makes a binding decision on the matters you cannot resolve. It is usually faster, more flexible and more private than going to court.
We will explain each option clearly and help you decide which approach suits your situation. Working alongside trusted mediators and arbitrators, we guide you through the process with steady and practical advice, allowing you to move forward with confidence.
Costs and Fees
We provide clear cost estimates from the start and ensure you always know what you are paying for. Costs can include court fees, expert reports, barristers’ and Land Registry fees and we will agree all external charges with you before going ahead.
What makes us different?
A team of specialists
Our family law team brings together a wide range of expertise so you always have access to the right guidance at the right time. We work with a shared focus on providing a high quality service and clear support throughout your case.
Extensive knowledge
Every member of our team has strong experience and training, allowing us to offer tailored advice that stands out for its clarity and depth.
Solicitors in England and Wales
Because England and Wales share the same legal system, we can advise confidently on any family law matter across either jurisdiction.
Location
We have offices across the country and continue to expand. If visiting us is not convenient, we offer online meetings and telephone appointments so you can access advice wherever you are.
Sensitivity and tact
When children are involved we recognise the importance of maintaining a constructive relationship between parents. We handle every matter with care to support positive future communication.
Clear fees
You will receive a realistic estimate of costs at the outset, based on many years of practical experience. Our work is tailored to your circumstances and what you need from us.
Lasting relationships
We place great value on building long term relationships with our clients. The better we understand you and your situation, the more effectively we can support you throughout the legal process.
Contact us today to discuss your family law matter
Martin Edwards and the team have been fantastic. He's definitely gone above and beyond to get us to completion in time. Thank you so much.
JB Britton
Over 700 5* Google Reviews
Emma & Rhiana at HCB were Immense in both our Sale & House Purchase. Customer service is lacking with most solicitors but these two working on our cases were superb. Always happy to pick up a call. Persistent as you would like them to be and no time wasting. Thank you for all the hard work. I'd recommend HCB to anybody looking for a conveyancer.
Andrew Foligno
Over 700 5* Google Reviews
We worked with Emma and Rhiana in Swansea, on the purchase of our first home. They were efficient, thorough and supported us through. This was our first experience purchasing a property, they answered all our questions, kept us up to date on every step of the process and was very accommodating and understanding. Would highly recommend, felt a personable experience and can't thank them enough!
Jade
Over 700 5* Google Reviews
Really happy with the service we received. Tracy and the team made the whole process smooth and kept us updated at every stage. Buying a house can be stressful, but they were always clear, helpful, and easy to reach. Overall, a great experience — would definitely recommend.
Ali Ahmad Sabir
Over 700 5* Google Reviews
I cannot recommend Natalie and her team more highly.
They were professional, approachable and supportive and replied to all correspondence quickly.
Every step and document was well explained. Thank you!
Ward Linda
Over 700 5* Google Reviews
Fantastic experience entrusting HCB Solicitors with the sale of my property. Natalie, Abigail, and Sarah were all brilliant to deal with, and communication was exceptional — nothing was too much trouble.
I cannot recommend them highly enough for anyone needing conveyancing services.
Barrie Davies
Over 700 5* Google Reviews
A huge thank you to Saskia, Rob, Luke and all the team who have assisted us on our journey.
A special mention to Saskia who has in my opinion nerves of steel. She has delivered a very efficient and professional service throughout. Her knowledge in educational law is second to none.
I'm so thankful that our case reached the outcome we were so hoping for and not having to attend the tribunal.
I would highly recommend Saskia and the team and would not hesitate in contacting them again should the need arise.
Best wishes
A and B Nunn
Angela Darby
Over 700 5* Google Reviews
I had a very good experience with HCB Widdows Mason Limited. The team was professional, supportive, and responsive throughout the entire process. They explained everything clearly and kept me updated at every stage, which made things much less stressful. Their knowledge and attention to detail really stood out, and I felt confident that my case was in safe hands. I would definitely recommend their services to anyone looking for reliable legal support.
Arun Sasi
Over 700 5* Google Reviews
I cannot recommend Natalie highly enough. From start to finish, she was professional, knowledgeable, and incredibly supportive during what could have been a very stressful process. Natalie took the time to explain everything clearly, kept me informed at every stage, and was always quick to respond to any questions or concerns. Nothing ever felt rushed or brushed aside — I genuinely felt listened to and well looked after.
Amy Williams
Over 700 5* Google Reviews
Incredibly helpful and informative service provided by Ed Duff. It was clear that we were unable to work with our LA to resolve issues and concerns ourselves regarding our sons EHCP and secondary school placement. We reached out to Ed for advice following recommendation. It was the best decision we made, we instructed Ed to act on our behalf as we knew this gave our son the best shot and the outcome was the decision that we wanted.
Sarah Bradley
Over 700 5* Google Reviews
HCB have been excellent in dealing with both the selling of my house and purchase of another. They were very speedy and contactable throughout the process and also very friendly. I would highly recommend.
Steffan Tucker
Over 700 5* Google Reviews
I reached out to this firm with concerns over my son experiencing discrimination in his post 16 setting. The support I received was excellent from the regular email contact and phone calls updating me at each step of the process. They were very knowledgeable in the area of ALN and discrimination where they were able to explain the decisions made at each step of the way which made understanding the outcome a lot easier. Thank you for all your support Robert and Maria!
Cathrin Edwards
Over 700 5* Google Reviews
Really pleased with the great support from Dan, Kieron and Cathy, who did an amazing job with the sale of our home and the purchase of a new home. I couldn't be happier, and would definitely recommend
Lee Hannan
Over 700 5* Google Reviews
We worked with Stephanie & Andrew at HCB Cardiff to secure our son an EHCP and a place at a specialist independent school. We couldn't have done this without their unwavering support and I would recommend to any family with a SEND child looking to get the school setting they most desperately need. Thank you so much for helping us and especially in our tribunal hearing. We will always be grateful.
Helen H
Over 700 5* Google Reviews
I had an excellent experience with Emma and her team. From start to finish, they were professional, supportive, and always available to answer my questions. Emma handled everything with great care and attention to detail, making the whole process much less stressful. I truly appreciated their dedication, clear communication, and hard work throughout. I highly recommend Emma and her team to anyone looking for reliable and outstanding legal support.
Sathish Thivakaran
Over 700 5* Google Reviews
I used HCB to buy and sell my property. Holly, India and Claire were seamless throughout and made the process as stress free as possible. Holly in particular was absolutely fantastic during the process and was always available to answer my queries and reassure me throughout. Would definitely recommend Claire and her team to assist with this process.
Jordan Bishop
Over 700 5* Google Reviews
Nathan Davies and his colleagues supported us through our SEND tribunal with professionalism and dedication. His deep knowledge of the law and extensive experience in securing the support children deserve are matched by a genuine passion and, when needed, a righteous sense of outrage for fighting for children’s education. We are incredibly grateful. Thank you.
Abigail McMullen
Over 700 5* Google Reviews
As a team, Kelsey, Daniel and in particular Danielle were very professional, clear and concise throughout my whole experience. I found this experience particularly challenging as I was buying a new property on my own for the first time. I was offered the best advice which gave me confidence and clarity in the process. I would wholeheartedly recommend HCB to any of my friends or colleagues.
Grubber65
Over 700 5* Google Reviews
I had a wonderful experience with HCB Solicitors for the sale of my first property. Callum and the team handled everything so efficiently and made the whole process completely stress free, even managing to finalise documents and complete while I was away! Everything was done so quickly despite the busy festive period and I always felt well informed throughout. I can’t recommend them highly enough!
Elin Bowen
Over 700 5* Google Reviews
We were recommended to Ed Duff and HCB by another family he had helped and the team more than lived up to the recommendation. We’d had a SENDIST appeal underway for many months but as the tribunal date drew closer I began to feel out of my depth and decided to look for professional help. Ed reviewed our case quickly, saw exactly what needed to happen and helped us to secure the school placement our daughter needed all within a matter of days. We cannot thank him enough for his expertise and professionalism which has transformed our family as my daughter is now thriving in the right school setting.
Louise Foglia
Over 700 5* Google Reviews
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