Divorce Solicitors Leeds | Divorce Lawyers & Family Law Solicitors | Austin Kemp

Specialist Divorce Solicitors Leeds

Divorce Solicitors Leeds

Are you considering a divorce and located in Leeds? At Austin Kemp Solicitors, we understand that this is a difficult and emotional time, and we are here to help you through the process.

Austin Kemp Solicitors
St Andrew House
The Headrow
Leeds
LS1 5JW

National Presence With 37 Offices

National Presence With 37 Offices

Legal 500
Leading Firm 2024

Legal 500
Leading Firm 2024

Family Law Solicitors & Divorce Lawyers in Leeds

Are you considering a divorce and located in Leeds?

At Austin Kemp Solicitors, we understand that this is a difficult and emotional time, and we are here to help you through the process. As one of the leading specialist family law firms in the UK, we are positioned to serve you wherever you are, and whatever family law challenge you have.

Our expert team of divorce lawyers who are all at your disposal, individually and collectively. We will put together the team bespoke to your needs, in terms of our expertise and your personal needs and objectives. Our expert divorce solicitors are committed to getting you the outcome that you want and know how important it is to be listened to. You will be assigned a specialist lawyer for your case who will be available to answer all of your questions and address any concerns you may have.

Successful Family Law Solicitors in Leeds

We are a leading and award-winning law firm, founded on the ambition to build one of the most respected firms to ever exist.

Today, that ambition is still true, and we live that mission every day.

With over 200 years of qualified experience – and counting – and a success rate of 92%, we are confident in our ability to help you get the outcome you deserve.

But don’t just take our word for it. In the last year alone, we dealt with £600m of family homes, £14m of family cars, £100m of family income, and £140m of pensions. Our divorce solicitors are true industry experts who focus exclusively on family law, and we are a nationwide firm with 37 client meeting offices across the country.

By Your Side Family Solicitors In Leeds

If you are ready to move forward with your divorce, we encourage you to reach out to us for a confidential and no-obligation consultation.

It’s important to act now and not let the dangers of not taking action – such as the potential for a negative financial outcome or the impact on your mental health – weigh on you any longer.

We are here to help you through this difficult time and to get the outcome you deserve.

Contact us today to learn more and to schedule your consultation with one of our experienced divorce solicitors in Leeds.

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What is a divorce financial settlement?

A divorce financial settlement is an agreement reached between divorcing spouses that determines how their assets and debts will be divided upon the dissolution of their marriage.

This can include the division of property, such as the family home and any other real estate, as well as personal property, such as cars and jewellery. The financial settlement may also address issues such as alimony or spousal support and child support.

The financial settlement is typically negotiated between the spouses or their lawyers, and may be reached through mediation or other alternative dispute resolution methods. If the spouses are unable to reach an agreement, the financial settlement will be decided by a judge in court.

It is important for divorcing spouses to understand their rights and options when it comes to the financial settlement, as it can have a significant impact on their financial future. Seeking legal advice from a qualified divorce lawyer can help ensure that your rights and interests are protected during the settlement process.

If you are facing a family law matter, it is important to have a team of experienced divorce lawyers and family law solicitors by your side to provide support and guidance. Our divorce lawyers can help you understand your rights and options and work with you to find a resolution that meets your needs and those of your family.

By Simon Rosenthall | Associate Solicitor | Leeds Office

What am I entitled to in a divorce settlement?

The law regarding divorce settlements is based on the principle of equal distribution of assets acquired during the marriage.

This means that, in general, each spouse is entitled to a fair share of the assets and debts accumulated during the marriage.

However, the specific terms of a divorce settlement will depend on the individual circumstances of the case. A number of factors may be taken into consideration when determining the settlement, including:

  1. The length of the marriage
  2. The income and financial resources of each spouse
  3. The standard of living established during the marriage
  4. The contributions made by each spouse to the marriage, including financial and non-financial contributions
  5. The needs of any children of the marriage

In addition to the division of assets, the divorce settlement may also address issues such as alimony or spousal support, child custody and support, and the division of any debts.

It is important to seek legal advice from a qualified divorce lawyer to understand your rights and options in a divorce settlement. A lawyer can help you negotiate a settlement that is fair and equitable and protects your interests.

Family law matters can be complex and emotionally challenging, so it is important to have a divorce lawyer who is willing to listen to your concerns and offer understanding and support. A lawyer who is committed to helping you navigate the legal process and achieve a favourable outcome can be an invaluable resource during this difficult time.

By Sara Armistead | Associate Solicitor | Leeds Office

How do I prepare for a financial settlement?

If you are preparing for a financial settlement, there are several steps you can take to ensure that you are fully prepared:

  1. Gather financial documents: Make sure you have copies of important financial documents, such as bank statements, mortgage documents, and tax returns.
  2. Make a list of assets and debts: Create a list of all of the assets and debts that you and your spouse have acquired during the marriage. This should include items such as the family home, vehicles, investments, and credit card debts.
  3. Determine your financial needs: Consider your financial needs and those of your spouse and any children. This will help you determine what you are entitled to in the settlement.
  4. Seek legal advice: It is important to seek legal advice from a qualified divorce lawyer to understand your rights and options in the settlement process. A family lawyer can help you negotiate a settlement that is fair and equitable and protects your interests.
  5. Consider mediation: Mediation is a process in which a neutral third party helps you and your spouse reach an agreement on the terms of your divorce. This can be a less expensive and less stressful alternative to going to court.

By taking these steps, you can ensure that you are fully prepared for the financial settlement process and are able to protect your interests.

If you are in Leeds and facing a family law issue, it is important to seek legal representation from a team of experienced professionals who can help you find a resolution that meets your needs.

By Keith Wivell | Associate Solicitor | Leeds Office

Who gets my share of the property if I divorce?

The law regarding the division of property in a divorce is based on the principle of equal distribution of assets acquired during the marriage.

This means that, in general, each spouse is entitled to a fair share of the assets and debts accumulated during the marriage.

The specific terms of the division of property in a divorce will depend on the individual circumstances of the case. A number of factors may be taken into consideration when determining the settlement, including:

  1. The length of the marriage
  2. The income and financial resources of each spouse
  3. The standard of living established during the marriage
  4. The contributions made by each spouse to the marriage, including financial and non-financial contributions
  5. The needs of any children of the marriage

If you are getting a divorce in the UK, it is important to seek legal advice from a qualified divorce lawyer to understand your rights and options when it comes to the division of property. A lawyer can help you negotiate a settlement that is fair and equitable and protects your interests.

If you are facing a family law matter, it can be helpful to work with a specialist law firm that is dedicated to this area of practice. A firm that focuses solely on family law will have a deep understanding of the issues and challenges that families face, as well as the laws and regulations that apply to these cases.

Working with our team of experienced family law solicitors can be particularly beneficial if you are located in the Leeds area – our divorce lawyers will be familiar with the local courts and will be able to provide you with tailored advice and representation that meets your needs.

It is important to remember that each family law matter is unique, and the process will depend on your individual circumstances. Seeking legal advice from a specialist qualified family law solicitor can help ensure that your rights and interests are protected throughout the process.

By Jennifer Hollyer | Senior Associate Solicitor | Leeds Office

How to protect your pension during divorce?

There are several steps you can take to protect your pension during a divorce:

  1. Obtain a pension valuation: Before negotiating the terms of the divorce settlement, it is important to obtain a valuation of your pension to understand its value and how it may be divided.
  2. Consider your options: There are several options for dividing a pension during a divorce, including offsetting the value of the pension against other assets, transferring a portion of the pension to the other spouse, or retaining the entire pension. Your lawyer can help you understand your options and make an informed decision.
  3. Seek legal advice: It is important to seek legal advice from a qualified divorce lawyer to understand your rights and options when it comes to dividing your pension during a divorce. A lawyer can help you negotiate a settlement that is fair and equitable and protects your interests.
  4. Update your beneficiary designations: Make sure that your pension beneficiary designations are updated to reflect your current circumstances.

By taking these steps, you can help protect your pension during a divorce and ensure that your financial interests are protected.

There are many different issues that may arise in a divorce or family law matter, including financial issues such as the division of assets and debts, and legal issues such as child custody and support. A divorce lawyer who is an expert with these types of issues can help you understand your rights and options and work with you to find a resolution that meets your needs.

If you are dealing with financial or legal issues in a divorce or family law matter, don’t hesitate to get in touch with our team for guidance and representation.

By Neeta Mardia | Associate Solicitor | Leeds Office

Why use Austin Kemp Solicitors in Leeds for your Divorce?

We are committed to getting you the outcome that you want and know how important it is to be listened to.

You will be assigned a specialist family lawyer for your case, and they will be available to answer all of your questions and re-assure any concerns.

To learn more about our expert approach to divorce law – click here.

How can Austin Kemp Solicitors in Leeds help?

Our divorce solicitors and family lawyers help clients from Leeds and the surrounding area with a range of legal issues, including:

Success rate of our divorce solicitors in Leeds

In 2022, we noted a success rate of over 92% in our cases.

This is something we are very proud of, and wish to share.  Our success rate is based on major success in court hearings, applications and client objectives met. Favourable settlements or adjournments are not included in this calculation for more accuracy. 

Our experience of complex divorce and separation cases doesn’t just mean that we don’t consider you, the person at the heart of this.  In everything we do, we put our clients needs first. We take the time to understand you and the result that you need and then go to work to get you exactly that.  That is why we have a 92% success rate in our cases.

We are a results focused firm of solicitors with our client’s objectives at the heart or every step we take.

Our Leeds divorce solicitors are located in the heart of Leeds city centre.

We are located in a landmark four-storey contemporary building overlooking the famous Headrow and Leeds City Town Hall.

Our Leeds divorce solicitors are centrally located in Leeds next to the financial district where neighbours include major high street banks, legal firms and accountants and the city’s main railway station.

Our Leeds divorce solicitors specialise in high net worth divorce and family breakdown cases. Our wealth of legal and business knowledge and experience allows us to apply a direct no-nonsense commercial approach to your case to achieve your objectives.

Our divorce solicitors in Leeds specialise in high net worth divorce, civil partnership dissolution, pre-nuptial and post-nuptial agreements, cohabitation agreements, domestic violence, child contact orders, residence (including relocation issues) and child abduction.

Leeds Office: St Andrew House, The Headrow, Leeds, LS1 5JW

Contact Number: 0113 493 1699

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Nearest Transport Links to Leeds Office

Railway

Leeds City Train Station is a short 5 min walk to our Leeds offices. From the station head towards Concourse, towards city centre (1) exit.

Airport

Leeds Bradford International Airport is 6.55 miles.

Car Parks

The Light, St Anne’s Street, Leeds, LS1 8TL (Leeds City Council, Pay on Departure) Approx. 4 mins walk.
Westgate, Lisbon Street, Leeds, LS1 4LX (Multistorey, Pay on Departure) Approx. 4 mins walk.

Bus

We are a 15-minute walk from Leeds City Bus Station. Buses stop on The Headrow, Westgate and Infirmary Street. Visit here for a map of Leeds City Centre with bus stop information. Visit here for further detailed information on timetables and routes.

Our Guarantee

First Class Service

Choose Austin Kemp and you'll get a premium service in all areas. We aren't the cheapest out there, but what we are is the best solution to help you get what you deserve.

Impeccable Advice

Our advice and strategy is second to none. Not all law firms are created equal. Because we're specialists, our depth of knowledge is often the edge that makes the difference.

Challenging Thinking

We work with you to get what you deserve. We don't mean that it's going to be easy – but we're here to support you every part of the journey.

Industry Leading Professionals

We have A-players at every level. We employ the best of the best, and that's why our clients choose us. Because getting the right solicitor can mean your future takes a different path.

The Right Fit

We'll make sure you have a solicitor that fits your case type. If you want a certain approach to your case – we'll make sure your solicitor has the right style for you.

Empathy

We know that getting a divorce divides your world into two. We're here to guide you through the uncertainty and emotional rollercoaster. One step at a time.

First Class Service

Choose Austin Kemp and you'll get a premium service in all areas. We aren't the cheapest out there, but what we are is the best solution to help you get what you deserve.

Impeccable Advice

Our advice and strategy is second to none. Not all law firms are created equal. Because we're specialists, our depth of knowledge is often the edge that makes the difference.

Challenging Thinking

We work with you to get what you deserve. We don't mean that it's going to be easy – but we're here to support you every part of the journey.

Industry Leading Professionals

We have A-players at every level. We employ the best of the best, and that's why our clients choose us. Because getting the right solicitor can mean your future takes a different path.

The Right Fit

We'll make sure you have a solicitor that fits your case type. If you want a certain approach to your case – we'll make sure your solicitor has the right style for you.

Empathy

We know that getting a divorce divides your world into two. We're here to guide you through the uncertainty and emotional rollercoaster. One step at a time.

Talk to us now on 0333 311 0925

Divorce Solicitors Leeds

Frequently Asked Questions

FAQs By Our Divorce Solicitors Leeds

Is it possible to divorce without involving the court in the UK?

Yes, it is possible to get a divorce in the United Kingdom without involving the court. There are several alternatives to the traditional court process that can be used to resolve the issues in a divorce, such as:

  1. Mediation: Mediation is a process in which a neutral third party helps you and your spouse reach an agreement on the terms of your divorce. This can be a less expensive and less stressful alternative to going to court.
  2. Collaborative divorce: In a collaborative divorce, you and your spouse work with a team of professionals, including lawyers, to resolve the issues in your divorce out of court.
  3. Do-it-yourself divorce: In some cases, it may be possible to obtain a divorce without the assistance of a lawyer. However, this is only recommended if you and your spouse are able to agree on all of the terms of the divorce and have relatively simple financial circumstances.

It is important to note that, in order to obtain a divorce in the UK, you must have a valid reason, or "grounds," for the divorce. The grounds for divorce vary by state, but common grounds include adultery, abandonment, and irreconcilable differences.

If you are considering a divorce in the UK, it is important to seek legal advice to understand your rights and options and determine the best course of action for your individual circumstances.

Is it true that the lawyer will get 1/3 of the divorce settlement?

There is no one-size-fits-all formula for determining what is a fair divorce settlement in the United Kingdom. The specific terms of the settlement will depend on the individual circumstances of the case.

In general, the law in the UK is based on the principle of equal distribution of assets acquired during the marriage. This means that, in general, each spouse is entitled to a fair share of the assets and debts accumulated during the marriage.

However, the specific terms of the settlement will depend on a number of factors, including:

  1. The length of the marriage
  2. The income and financial resources of each spouse
  3. The standard of living established during the marriage
  4. The contributions made by each spouse to the marriage, including financial and non-financial contributions
  5. The needs of any children of the marriage

It is important to seek legal advice from a qualified divorce lawyer to understand your rights and options when it comes to determining a fair divorce settlement. A lawyer can help you negotiate a settlement that is fair and equitable and protects your interests.

What financial mistakes do people make when getting divorced?

There are several financial mistakes that people may make when getting divorced in the United Kingdom:

  1. Failing to gather financial documents: It is important to have copies of all relevant financial documents, such as bank statements, mortgage documents, and tax returns, to ensure that the divorce settlement is fair and equitable.
  2. Not understanding the value of assets: It is important to obtain valuations of assets, such as the family home, vehicles, and investments, to ensure that they are divided fairly in the divorce settlement.
  3. Not considering the long-term financial implications: It is important to think about the long-term financial implications of the divorce settlement, rather than just focusing on the immediate needs. This can help ensure that the settlement is fair and sustainable in the long term.
  4. Not seeking legal advice: It is important to seek legal advice from a qualified divorce lawyer to understand your rights and options and ensure that your interests are protected in the divorce settlement.

By avoiding these financial mistakes, you can help ensure that the divorce settlement is fair and equitable and protects your interests.

Do you have to show bank statements in a divorce?

In a divorce case in the United Kingdom, it is common for both spouses to be required to disclose financial information to each other, including bank statements. This is known as "financial disclosure."

Financial disclosure is an important part of the divorce process in the UK, as it helps to ensure that the divorce settlement is fair and equitable. By disclosing financial information, each spouse can provide the other with a full picture of their financial situation, including their assets, debts, income, and expenses.

In general, both spouses are required to disclose financial information to each other if they are going through a divorce in the UK. This includes information such as bank statements, mortgage documents, and tax returns.

If you are going through a divorce in the UK, it is important to seek legal advice to understand your rights and obligations when it comes to financial disclosure. A qualified divorce lawyer can help you navigate the process and protect your interests.

How are lawyers able to find hidden assets during a divorce?

In a divorce case in the United Kingdom, it is important for both spouses to fully disclose all of their assets and debts. However, in some cases, one spouse may try to hide assets in order to protect them from being divided in the divorce settlement.

There are several ways that lawyers can help identify hidden assets during a divorce in the UK:

  1. Reviewing financial documents: Lawyers can review financial documents, such as bank statements, tax returns, and mortgage documents, to identify any assets that may have been overlooked.
  2. Conducting asset searches: Lawyers may conduct asset searches to identify any hidden assets, such as real estate, investments, or business interests.
  3. Interviewing witnesses: Lawyers may interview witnesses, such as financial advisors or accountants, to gather information about any assets that may not have been disclosed.
  4. Using forensic accountants: Lawyers may work with forensic accountants to analyze financial records and identify any assets that may have been hidden.

By using these techniques, lawyers can help identify hidden assets and ensure that the divorce settlement is fair and equitable.

The house is in spouse’s name only, what rights do I have?

If the house is in your spouse's name only, you may not have ownership rights in the property. However, this does not necessarily mean that you are not entitled to a share of the value of the house in the divorce settlement.

In the United Kingdom, the law regarding the division of property in a divorce is based on the principle of equal distribution of assets acquired during the marriage. This means that, in general, each spouse is entitled to a fair share of the assets and debts accumulated during the marriage.

If the house is in your spouse's name only, but you made financial or non-financial contributions to the property, such as paying the mortgage or making improvements to the house, you may be entitled to a share of the value of the property in the divorce settlement.

It is important to seek legal advice from a qualified divorce lawyer to understand your rights and options when it comes to the division of property in a divorce. A lawyer can help you negotiate a settlement that is fair and equitable and protects your interests.

Who gets the house in a divorce with children?

In a divorce case in the United Kingdom involving children, the welfare of the children is the paramount consideration. This means that the court will take into account the needs and best interests of the children when determining the division of property, including the family home.

There are several factors that the court may consider when determining the division of the family home in a divorce with children in the UK, including:

  1. The age and needs of the children
  2. The financial resources of each spouse
  3. The ability of each spouse to provide suitable accommodation for the children
  4. The impact of the division of the family home on the children's stability and welfare

In some cases, it may be determined that it is in the best interests of the children for one spouse to retain the family home and the other spouse to receive a share of the equity in the property. In other cases, it may be more appropriate for the family home to be sold and the proceeds divided between the spouses.

It is important to seek legal advice from a qualified divorce lawyer to understand your rights and options when it comes to the division of property in a divorce with children. A lawyer can help you negotiate a settlement that is fair and equitable and protects your interests.

How to respond to a divorce petition without a lawyer?

If you have been served with a divorce petition in the United Kingdom and you do not have a lawyer, you have the option to respond to the petition yourself. Here are some steps you can take to respond to a divorce petition without a lawyer in the UK:

  1. Review the petition: Carefully review the petition to understand the grounds for the divorce and any other claims made in the petition.
  2. Consider your options: You have several options for responding to the petition, including agreeing to the divorce, contesting the divorce, or challenging the terms of the divorce. Consider your options and decide how you want to proceed.
  3. Prepare your response: You will need to prepare a written response to the petition, known as an "answer." In your answer, you should state whether you agree or disagree with the divorce and any other claims made in the petition. You should also set out your position on any financial or other issues related to the divorce.
  4. File your response: You will need to file your written response with the court and serve a copy on your spouse. You will need to follow the court's rules for filing and serving documents.
  5. Attend court: If you are unable to reach an agreement with your spouse, you may need to attend court to resolve any disputes. If you do not have a lawyer, you may be able to seek assistance from the court's duty solicitor or a legal aid provider.

By following these steps, you can respond to a divorce petition without a lawyer in the UK. However, it is important to note that the divorce process can be complex and it is generally advisable to seek legal advice to ensure that your rights and interests are protected.

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Austin Kemp handled my divorce efficiently and pleasantly, with a consistent contact person, making it all convenient online. Their straightforward online payment system was a necessary evil, but I'd use them again if needed.

Referred by an online service, I chose Austin Kemp for divorce and financial settlement with my ex-wife. Emma's assistance was invaluable; I paid for a guidance check on the consent order before submission. Court process went smoothly, and I'm content with the outcome.

Throughout the process, Emma guided me, addressing any issues promptly. No complaints—consent and pension sharing orders approved swiftly after submission, indicating accurate document preparation.

Austin Kemp's team deserves only praise. Highly knowledgeable and passionate about client support, they saved the day. Tenacious advocates, they stood by me till the end. I highly recommend them—no need to take chances with other firms!

Alex Clarke, 'The Saviour,' actively handled my case, ensuring clear communication and understanding throughout. He promptly responded to calls and emails, investing time even before any formal agreement. His integrity convinced me he was the right choice to represent me. When it comes to issues concerning children, contact Alex Clarke—'The Saviour.'

Austin Kemp in Numbers

92%Success rate

We get the results our clients want 92% of the time. If you want a law firm that gets results – we're ready for your call.

37Offices in England

We're a truly national law firm. Wherever you are, we can help.

£1BAssets worked on

In the last few years alone, we've helped clients unravel complex situations and move forward.

200Years of experience

Our expert divorce solicitors are committed to getting you the outcome that you want and know how important it is to be listened to.

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