Trusted by thousands to navigate divorce
Divorce specialists in Birmingham, Warwickshire and Gloucestershire
Our specialist divorce lawyers are here to support you every step of the way, offering excellent legal and tactical advice. Our goal is to help you resolve your marital difficulties in a sensible, pragmatic, cost-effective and proportionate way that works for you.
Unfortunately, we are unable to offer legal aid.
What do our clients say?
How we can help you?
Going through a divorce can feel daunting, but you don’t have to do it alone. Our team of friendly, experienced divorce lawyers are here to support you every step of the way. We’ll explain your options clearly and help you make decisions that feel right for you.
We know every situation is different, so we take the time to understand what matters most to you, whether that’s protecting your finances, making arrangements for your children or simply finding the quickest and least stressful way forward. Our goal is to make the process as smooth and straightforward as possible.
If things can be resolved amicably, we’ll help you achieve that. If not, we’ll stand by your side and fight for the best outcome. Throughout it all, you can count on us for clear advice, honest guidance and a service that’s discreet and compassionate.
Ready to take the next step? Get in touch today for an initial consultation and let us help you move forward with confidence.
How does it work?
1. You start the process – Complete the form on this page.
2. Filing the divorce application – One or both spouses apply online or via a solicitor.
3. Reflection period – A mandatory 20-week period before moving to the next stage.
4. Conditional Order – The court approves that the marriage can be ended.
5. Final Order – This legally dissolves the marriage.
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Other ways our specalists can help you
Divorce can be confusing
Have a Question?
Take a look at some of our frequently asked questions for more information.
A financial divorce settlement is an agreement that determines how money, property, pensions, and other assets are shared when a marriage ends. Cases are assessed individually, based on factors like the length of the marriage, each person’s financial needs, and contributions (both financial and non-financial). The outcome can have a substantial impact on your future.
Some couples reach an agreement amicably, while others may need solicitor-led negotiation or court intervention. Once you have reached a financial settlement agreement, a solicitor will draft a consent order to make it legally binding. This legal document, known as a ‘final order’ confirms both parties’ agree on the division of assets.
From our Birmingham and Stratford offices, Lodders expert divorce solicitors can guide you through this process, helping you secure a fair outcome. For those requiring complete privacy, our Henley office also provides a discreet setting for sensitive discussions.
Yes, pensions can be shared as part of a financial settlement. There are three main ways this can happen:
· Pension sharing – A percentage of one spouse’s pension is transferred to the other.
· Pension offsetting – One spouse keeps their pension while the other receives other assets (for example, a larger share of the family home).
· Pension attachment – A portion of pension benefits is paid to the ex-spouse when the pension holder retires.
If you separate without divorcing, pensions cannot be formally divided, though a surviving spouse may still be entitled to some benefits.
Often a couple will share the responsibilities of being a pet owner, which makes it difficult to determine who it “belongs” to in the event of a divorce.
The primary, legal consideration for the courts is who has proof of ownership. However, if both parties share this, case law suggests that the pet will go to the party who has principally looked after it based on evidence. If the pet was clearly gifted to the other party, then the recipient of the gift will keep it. Find out more about pets and divorce.
A divorce ends a legally valid marriage, while an annulment declares the marriage was never legally valid in the first place.
A marriage is considered not legally valid if you’re closely related to the person you married, one or both of you were under 18 (or under 16 if the marriage took place before 27 February 2023) or one of you was already married or in a civil partnership.
A marriage can also be voidable by annulment if:
· It was not consummated (this does not apply for same sex couples)
· You did not properly consent to the marriage
· The other person had a sexually transmitted disease when you got married
· Your spouse was pregnant by someone else when you got married
· One spouse is in the process of transitioning to a different gender
Divorce can be a difficult time for children, but how it affects them depends on how the process is handled. Courts prioritise the best interests of children when making decisions about child arrangements and financial support.
Where possible, it’s best to resolve child arrangements outside of court. Mediation, negotiation, or collaborative law can help parents reach agreements that work for everyone involved. At Lodders, we support parents in finding child-focused solutions while minimising conflict.
Meet our award winning experts
People who truly know the law, but understand you and your needs
Based in the Midlands and South West
Regional firm, national reach
With four offices strategically located across the Midlands and the Southwest of England, we’re perfectly positioned to serve clients near and far. Whether you’re in London, Bristol or beyond, our team regularly travels to meet clients wherever they need us.
Prefer a virtual meeting? We’re happy to connect via Microsoft Teams or Zoom, ensuring expert legal advice is always just a click away.
Where to find us?
Stratford upon Avon
Lodders Solicitors
Number Ten, Elm Court
Arden Street
Stratford upon Avon
Warwickshire
CV37 6PA
Henley in Arden
Lodders Solicitors
16 High Street
Henley in Arden
Warwickshire
West Midlands
B95 5BW
Cheltenham
Lodders Solicitors
Glensanda House
1 Montpellier Parade
Cheltenham
GL50 1UA
Birmingham
Lodders Solicitors
1 Newhall Street
Birmingham
B3 3NH