Family & Divorce
We understand the stress and pressure that can come with dealing with family matters, from straightforward to complex cases with an international element.
We make it a priority to fully understand your circumstances, and we approach each case with sensitivity and empathy. We understand that family legal issues or disputes can be complex and often emotionally charged.
Our experienced lawyers advise on a wide range of family law matters, including divorce, pre-nuptial and post-nuptial agreements, and financial disputes involving assets such as matrimonial homes and investment properties. We have substantial experience in cases with an international element, including those involving mainland China, Hong Kong, and Singapore.
We work closely with our clients to develop a tailored legal strategy that meets their needs. Whether through negotiation, mediation, or litigation, our aim is to help our clients reach a fair and satisfactory resolution to their family law matter.
Divorce & Financial Settlement
Helping our clients through the divorce process is central to our family law practice at Duan & Duan UK LLP. From the initial application to the final order, we guide you through each stage, emphasising a constructive approach — particularly under the no-fault divorce framework and with the option of joint applications. We regularly act in high-net-worth settlements and in cross-border cases where spouses are domiciled and/or resident in different countries.
We handle every matter with discretion and determination, recognising the complexity that significant assets can bring to financial remedy proceedings.
Children's Law Advice
At Duan & Duan UK LLP, we prioritise the welfare of children in family disputes. We advise on all aspects of a child's upbringing, from general welfare to more specific issues such as changing a child's name or applying for leave to remove a child to another country. We encourage parents to focus on their children's interests, aiming to resolve matters in a way that protects their well-being.
Parental separation can be a particularly difficult time. We offer a range of support services, including parenting coaching and information on the Separated Parents Information Programme.
Cohabitation & Unmarried Families
Cohabitation presents distinct legal challenges, as cohabiting couples do not enjoy the same automatic rights or protections as married couples or those in civil partnerships. At Duan & Duan UK LLP, we assist couples in preparing for and resolving issues arising from cohabitation, including the shared home, arrangements for children, and financial and practical concerns.
During relationship breakdowns, we appreciate that the effects can extend beyond the family to third parties, including corporations and trustees, many of which are international. Our experience of cross-border matters helps us to address those issues in a coherent way.
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Our Family & Divorce Services
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Frequently Asked Questions
How does the divorce process work in England and Wales?
Since April 2022, England and Wales operate a no-fault divorce system. Either spouse can apply for a divorce without needing to prove fault. The process involves filing an application, a 20-week reflection period, a conditional order, and then a final order. The entire process takes a minimum of around 6 months.
How are financial assets divided in a divorce?
The court considers several factors including the length of the marriage, each party's financial needs and resources, the standard of living during the marriage, and contributions made by each party. The starting point is equal division, but the court has wide discretion to achieve a fair outcome based on the specific circumstances.
What happens with children during a divorce?
The welfare of the child is the court's paramount consideration. Parents are encouraged to agree arrangements between themselves, with mediation if needed. If agreement cannot be reached, the court can make child arrangements orders covering where the child lives and how much time they spend with each parent.
Can you help with international family disputes involving China?
Yes. We regularly handle cross-border family matters between England and China, including international child abduction cases under the Hague Convention, recognition of foreign divorces, and financial settlements involving assets in both jurisdictions. Our bilingual capability is invaluable in these complex cases.
Do I need to go to court, or can family matters be resolved privately?
Many family disputes can be resolved through negotiation, mediation, or collaborative law without going to court. The court actively encourages parties to try alternative dispute resolution first. We always aim to resolve matters as amicably as possible while protecting your interests.