Divorce Solicitors Serving Burnley and Blackburn
Deciding to end a marriage is rarely easy, and the legal side can feel like one more thing to worry about. Abbey Court Solicitors is based in Accrington, between Burnley and Blackburn, and our family team helps people in both towns through divorce from the first conversation to the final paperwork. We will explain what happens at each stage, in plain English, and help you make decisions you can live with.
Divorce in England and Wales: the basics
You can apply for a divorce in England and Wales if you are married, you meet the minimum marriage period set out in our guide, and the marriage has broken down irretrievably. You do not have to blame your spouse, and you do not need to prove anything about their behaviour. Either one of you can apply, or you can apply together.
The divorce itself ends the marriage. It does not, on its own, settle what happens to your children, your home, your pensions or your savings. Those questions are dealt with separately, and it is worth getting advice on them early. You can read the process step by step in our guide to the divorce process in England.
How we help with divorce in Burnley and Blackburn
- The divorce application: we prepare the application, check the details, deal with the court and your spouse’s side, and keep you informed as it progresses.
- Arrangements for children: if you have children, we can help you reach an agreement on where they live and how they spend time with each parent. See how child arrangements work.
- Dividing money and property: we advise on the family home, savings, pensions and debts, and on how to make an agreement legally binding. Our guide to financial settlements after separation explains the principles.
- When you do not agree: we will try to resolve things by negotiation first, and protect your position if the court needs to decide.
Why a financial agreement matters
Many people assume that once the divorce is finished, everything is sorted. That is not the case. Unless your financial arrangements are recorded in a court order, your former spouse may still be able to make a claim in the future. That is why we encourage you to deal with the money side at the same time as the divorce, not after.
Meeting us
Our office is a short journey from Burnley and Blackburn, and we are happy to meet face to face. If that is awkward, we can advise by phone, email or video call. You will talk to a solicitor who has time to listen, who tells you honestly what is likely, and who keeps the focus on getting you to a fair outcome without unnecessary conflict.
If you or your children are at risk, your safety comes first. In an emergency call 999, and tell us about any concerns when you contact us so we can talk through the protection that may be available.
Why choose Abbey Court for divorce
- A friendly, approachable family team, not a call centre
- Clear explanations at each stage, without jargon
- A calm approach that tries to keep conflict down, especially where children are involved
- An office in Accrington that is easy to reach from Burnley and Blackburn, with remote appointments as well
Frequently asked questions
Do I need to blame my spouse to get a divorce?
No. In England and Wales you state that the marriage has broken down irretrievably. You do not have to give reasons or allocate blame.
Does the divorce sort out my finances and children?
No. The divorce ends the marriage, but money, property, pensions and arrangements for children are dealt with separately. We recommend getting advice on these early, so your options are protected.
Do I have to go to court?
Most of the divorce process is handled through paperwork. Disagreements about money or children may need further steps, and we will explain if court is likely in your case. Many matters are agreed without a hearing.
Do I need a solicitor in Burnley or Blackburn itself?
No. You can choose any solicitor, and the law is the same wherever the firm is based. We are in Accrington, close to both towns, and can also advise remotely.
How do I get started?
Call us on 01254 385104 or use our contact page. Tell us briefly where you are and what you need, and we will explain the next steps.
Speak to our family team
If you are thinking about divorce in Burnley, Blackburn or the surrounding area, call Abbey Court Solicitors on 01254 385104 or get in touch online for a confidential first conversation. You can also read more about our wider family law services or our family solicitors for Burnley and Blackburn.