The breakdown of a marriage can leave you facing important decisions about your future, your finances and your family. Our experienced and knowledgeable divorce solicitors provide clear, practical advice so that you understand your legal position and find a resolution.

From our offices in Bury and Bolton, the team at Clough & Willis supports people going through this difficult time. Whether you want to make a sole or joint application, need to respond to divorce proceedings or require advice about related financial and child arrangements, our family law team will guide you through the process.

We will explain your options without unnecessary legal jargon, keep you informed and provide support that reflects your individual circumstances. Where wider family law matters need to be resolved, you can also draw on the experience of our specialist family lawyers.

To speak to one of our divorce solicitors, based in Bury and Bolton, call us on 0800 083 0815, or fill in our online enquiry form to request a call back at a time that’s convenient for you.

How the Divorce Process Works

In England and Wales, a divorce can be sought on the basis that the marriage has broken down irretrievably. You do not need to assign blame or rely on allegations about the other person’s behaviour.

You can apply individually as a sole applicant or apply together as joint applicants. The right approach will depend on your circumstances and whether you are both willing and able to cooperate throughout the process.

Starting or responding to a divorce application

We can prepare the application for you, check that the required information is accurate and explain what will happen after it has been issued by the court. If your husband or wife has already applied, we can advise you on the response and any action you need to take.

Applying for a conditional order

The conditional order confirms that the court sees no legal reason why the divorce cannot proceed. It is normally possible to apply for this once the statutory 20-week period has passed and the relevant procedural requirements have been met.

Applying for the final order

The final order legally ends the marriage. It cannot usually be requested until at least six weeks and one day after the conditional order.

Applying for the final order can have important consequences, especially where finances, pensions or inheritance rights remain unresolved. Our family law solicitors can advise you on the appropriate timing rather than treating the final order as an administrative formality.

Most divorces do not require the parties to attend a court hearing. If a separate dispute about finances or children leads to court proceedings, our specialist solicitors can provide realistic advice and representation.

Divorce, Finances and Child Arrangements

The divorce itself legally ends the marriage. It does not automatically divide your assets, prevent future financial claims or determine the arrangements for your children. These matters may need to be resolved separately.

Our family law team can provide coordinated legal advice so that you understand the wider implications before making important decisions.

Financial arrangements following divorce

A financial settlement may need to address:

• The family home and other property.
• Savings, investments and debts.
• Pensions.
• Income and ongoing maintenance.
• Businesses, shares or property portfolios.
• Other assets in England and Wales or overseas.

If you reach an agreement, it will not ordinarily become legally binding simply because you have recorded it between yourselves. A family solicitor can advise on whether the terms should be incorporated into a consent order and whether a clean-break provision is suitable.

Where agreement cannot be reached, we can advise on negotiation, mediation and financial remedy proceedings. We have experience of both straightforward financial matters and complex cases involving businesses, pensions, property and higher-value assets.

Arrangements for children

Parents are encouraged to agree arrangements that support their children’s interests wherever possible. These can include where a child will live, how much time they spend with each parent and how important decisions will be made.

Issues sometimes described as “child custody” are generally dealt with as child arrangements in England and Wales. If an agreement cannot be reached, our family lawyers can explain mediation and other non-court options or advise on an application for a child arrangements order.

Find out more about how we can help with children disputes and child arrangements.

Resolving Matters Constructively

Where it is safe and appropriate, resolving family law matters without contested court proceedings can give you more control, reduce conflict and keep legal costs proportionate.

Our divorce solicitors can help you consider direct negotiation, solicitor-led discussions, mediation and other constructive ways of reaching an agreement. If court proceedings become necessary, we will explain the process, provide practical guidance and represent your interests firmly.

Every family is different. We will give you realistic advice based on your individual circumstances rather than assuming that one approach will work for everyone.

If domestic abuse, coercive control or concerns about safety affect your situation, tell us as early as you can. We will handle the matter sensitively and explain the legal support and protective options that may be available. Where legal aid may be relevant, we can discuss this at the enquiry stage and signpost you to appropriate support if necessary.

Fixed-Fee Divorce Services and Costs

Clough & Willis offers fixed-fee options for certain divorce services, subject to eligibility and the terms of the relevant package. These can provide clarity about the cost of preparing or responding to a divorce application.

Fixed-fee divorce work does not necessarily include advice about the fairness of a financial settlement, child arrangements, disputed applications or other court proceedings. If you need additional legal assistance, we will explain the likely work and provide clear information about costs before you decide whether to proceed.

Visit our fixed-fee family law page for current prices, court fees, inclusions and conditions.

Why Choose Clough & Willis?

Clough & Willis has been providing legal services since 1948. From our Bury and Bolton offices, we combine specialist legal expertise with the approachable, personal service people expect from established local solicitors.

When you instruct our family law team, you can expect:

• Clear, straightforward advice tailored to your circumstances.
• Practical guidance on the divorce process and any connected family matters.
• Upfront information about likely costs and available fixed-fee services.
• Constructive advice aimed at resolving matters without court where appropriate.
• Firm representation where negotiations fail or court proceedings are necessary.
• Support from friendly professionals who understand the personal impact of relationship breakdown.
• In-person appointments in Bury or Bolton, with remote consultations available where appropriate.

Our head of family law, Lee Marston, is a Resolution Accredited Specialist with recognised experience in finances and children matters arising from divorce and separation. His expertise includes complex financial cases and child disputes.

When you get in touch with our divorce solicitors we will provide a free initial meeting fairly quickly to go over the details of your case and advise you on your next steps.  Our approach is grounded in genuine compassion, clear communication and realistic legal advice. We will help you understand your options and work with you towards an outcome that protects your position and supports your future.