Two names on the mortgage, one name on the deposit, and no declaration of trust: when a couple who bought a house in Fleetville together without marrying separate, the law looks at the paperwork, not at what seems fair, and family law solicitors in St Albans spend a good deal of time explaining that. Cohabitation disputes are a growing share of the work here, and a cohabitation agreement signed at the outset prevents most of the argument.
Which school? Few questions cause more conflict between separated parents here, and when they cannot agree on it, or on a move to a village in a better catchment, the family court can be asked for a specific issue order. Most disputes never reach a judge: nearly every children or finance application has to be preceded by a mediation information and assessment meeting, and the city's solicitors are used to arbitration, collaborative law and private hearings for families who would rather not wait for a listing at the family court in St Albans. When a case does go to court, Cafcass reports and the judge decides.
Prenuptial and postnuptial agreements are common where family money, inherited property and second marriages are usual, and the courts give them real weight when properly made.
Domestic abuse cases are dealt with urgently, with non-molestation and occupation orders available from the court within days and legal aid for the person applying. Care proceedings brought by Hertfordshire County Council are heard at the family court in the city, and parents are entitled to legal aid for them regardless of means.
A free or fixed-fee first meeting and hourly rates thereafter are usual among St Albans family solicitors.
The family firms below serve St Albans and the surrounding villages, verified firms first. Background reading: what family law covers and the general family law solicitors page; if the marriage itself is ending, start with divorce solicitors in St Albans and the divorce process.
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