Finding the right divorce and family lawyer in Manchester can make a decisive difference in outcomes for children, finances, and your future. Below is a carefully curated shortlist of some of the best Manchester family law teams with strong reputations and client feedback. Use the quick answers, service lists, and FAQs to compare options and take confident next steps.
Isaacson & Partners Solicitors
Isaacson & Partners is a boutique Manchester law firm based in Prestwich and serving clients across Greater Manchester and England and Wales. Led by Managing Partner, Sergio Weingarten, the team delivers clear, practical advice with a personal approach across both business and private client matters.
Core services
- Corporate and commercial including mergers, acquisitions and contracts
- Commercial property including business sales, purchases and leases
- Residential conveyancing for sales, purchases and remortgages
- Wills, trusts, probate and lasting powers of attorney
- Family law including divorce, finances and child arrangements
- Personal injury and serious accident claims
- Civil litigation and dispute resolution
- Employment law for employers and employees
- Landlord and tenant
- Sports law
Client testimonial
Excellent service throughout. Clear communication, responsive and professional. I would not hesitate to recommend Isaacson & Partners.
Verified online feedback
Enquire with Isaacson & Partners Solicitors
Stowe Family Law
The Manchester team is led by Managing Partner Gareth Curtis. The firm covers the full spectrum of family law and complex financial remedy work. Clients highlight clear strategy, responsiveness, and steady guidance across lengthy matters.
Core services
- Divorce and financial settlements
- Arrangements for children and parental responsibility
- Pre nuptial and post nuptial agreements
- Cohabitation agreements and separation
- Mediation and collaborative approaches
Client testimonial
Stowe Family Law Manchester delivered patient, professional support. Gareth Curtis is a smart and seasoned lawyer who focuses on creating the best solution for the challenge in hand. I faced a complex divorce and the team were always there, proactively tailoring solutions to my needs. Very satisfied with the service and outcome.
Verified online feedback
Enquire with Stowe Family Law Manchester
Austin Kemp
Austin Kemp is known for strategic advice in complex and high value financial cases, often acting in matters with business interests, trusts, or international elements. Expect focused case planning and rigorous presentation of evidence.
Core services
- Divorce and financial remedy strategy
- Business owner and HNW divorce
- Child arrangements and relocation
- Enforcement, variation, and appeals
- Dispute resolution including negotiation and mediation
Client testimonial
Intellectually bright, hardworking, and extremely professional. My case was at a difficult stage and I had lost patience. The team persuaded a calm, non retaliatory approach while robustly addressing allegations. Tough, diligent, and professional throughout.
Verified online feedback
Slater Heelis
Slater Heelis offers a broad family practice with both court litigation and out of court solutions. The team handles arbitration, collaborative law, and mediation with an emphasis on practical settlement and child focused outcomes.
Core services
- Divorce and finances including asset tracing
- Arrangements for children and safeguarding
- Arbitration, mediation, and collaborative law
- Domestic abuse protective orders
- Cohabitation and separation agreements
Client testimonial
Many thanks to the family team. Quick to respond, accommodating, and highly skilful. Clear guidance on the best way to proceed with my separation.
Verified online feedback
How to choose a Manchester divorce lawyer
- Scope and fit Check they regularly handle your type of case, for example complex finances or international child issues.
- Process Ask about likely stages, timeframes, and settlement options such as mediation or arbitration.
- Fees Request a costs estimate and discuss funding options and transparency of billing.
- Communication Agree on update frequency and your preferred channels.
For firms who believe they should be listed based on proven client reviews and reputation, contact us for consideration.
Frequently asked questions about divorce and family law in Manchester
What is the basic divorce process in England and Wales?
Most divorces follow a no fault process. After filing the application, there is a minimum reflection period before applying for the conditional order and, later, the final order. Financial orders and child arrangements are dealt with alongside but separately from the divorce.
How long does a divorce usually take?
Simple cases can complete in several months. Financial negotiations, court timetables, and international issues can extend timelines.
Do I need to go to court?
Many cases settle through negotiation, mediation, or arbitration. Court is typically a last resort when agreement is not possible or urgent protection is needed.
How are finances divided?
Courts aim for fairness by assessing needs, resources, contributions, and the welfare of any children. Outcomes include lump sums, property adjustment, pension sharing, and maintenance in appropriate cases.
What about arrangements for children?
Parents are encouraged to agree child focused arrangements. If the court is asked to decide, the child’s welfare is the paramount consideration.
Is mediation worth trying?
Mediation can reduce time and cost by helping both sides reach a workable solution. It is not suitable in some safeguarding situations. A MIAM is often required before certain court applications.
Can I protect business assets?
Business interests are considered part of the financial picture. Valuation evidence may be required. Settlement can be structured to preserve business viability while achieving fairness.
Are pre nuptial or post nuptial agreements binding?
They are not strictly binding but are given significant weight where both parties had independent advice, full disclosure, and the agreement is fair and freely entered into.
What documents should I prepare before an initial consultation?
Basic identity checks, a summary of assets and debts, income details, information about children, and any urgent concerns. This helps your lawyer assess options quickly.
How are fees managed?
Firms usually bill hourly with staged estimates. Ask about fixed fees for discrete work, payment on account, and regular cost updates.
Sources
- Stowe Family Law Manchester office
- Austin Kemp Manchester
- Slater Heelis family law services
- Gov.uk divorce guidance
- Gov.uk money and property on separation
- Family Mediation Council
- Gov.uk child arrangements court applications
- Financial Remedies Court resources
- Cafcass
- Resolution
The information on this page is general and not legal advice. This site is not a lawyer referral service and no solicitor client relationship is created by use of this page.