Julia Buckingham
Senior Partner – Head of Department
We understand that family matters can be complex and emotional. That’s why Butcher Andrews offers an initial appointment with one of our experienced family lawyers at a reduced fee—giving you the opportunity to discuss your situation and explore your options. To learn more about what’s included, please see our terms and conditions.
The end of a marriage or civil partnership can be one of the most difficult times in life, emotionally, practically and financially. Having the right legal support can make all the difference, providing clarity when everything feels uncertain and helping you plan for the future with confidence.
A divorce (or dissolution for civil partnerships) is the legal process that ends a marriage.
In April 2022 the divorce law in England and Wales was changed by the introduction of “no fault” divorce. No fault divorce means you no longer need to blame each other for ending a relationship, and you can simply state that there has been an irretrievable breakdown of the marriage. Although this has streamlined the process for ending the marriage, a separation often involves complex issues beyond the legal ending of the marriage or civil partnership and it is therefore often necessary to have the benefit of legal advice.
How we can help
Our family law specialists have extensive experience guiding individuals and families through separation and divorce. We understand the emotional impact as well as the legal complexities, and we work with sensitivity and professionalism throughout.
We will help you:
Our role is to provide calm, objective advice while remaining firmly on your side, offering practical, cost-effective support at every stage of the process.
When a relationship ends, most parents want to ensure that their children continue to feel secure, supported and loved. Agreeing the right arrangements is crucial, but sometimes discussions become difficult or sensitive. Our family law team is here to help you navigate this with clarity and care.
Our family lawyers have experience of dealing with complex cases involving allegations of sexual abuse, mental health issues, alcohol and drug addiction and domestic abuse. We work closely with you, and with other professionals, such as child psychologists and family therapists, to find a child-focused solution.
How we can help
Our specialist family lawyers have extensive experience assisting parents and families during separation. We will work with you to find solutions that prioritise your children’s wellbeing and provide stability for the future.
Our children lawyers can advise you regarding:
We aim to resolve children matters in a non-confrontational and cooperative way wherever possible, recognising that this is in everyone’s best interests. If mediation may help, we will discuss this with you and make a referral where appropriate.
If court involvement does become necessary, we will represent you with sensitivity and determination to achieve an outcome that supports your children’s wellbeing.
Kate Jackson is accredited by Resolution as a specialist in private children cases, reflecting our commitment to offering sensitive, informed and effective support in these highly complex cases.
Marital agreements (know as Pre-Nuptial Agreements or Post-Nuptial Agreements) are becoming increasingly common, particularly where individuals are entering a second or later marriage, or where one or both partners wish to protect assets built up before the relationship. They can offer clarity, reassurance and a shared understanding of how finances should be handled if the marriage were ever to break down.
While Marital Agreements are not strictly legally binding in England and Wales, the courts now give them significant weight provided they are fair and both parties received independent legal advice. As a result, a well-prepared agreement can be an effective way of reducing uncertainty and avoiding conflict in the future.
How we can help
Our experienced family lawyers can:
We focus on creating agreements that support open communication, protect individual assets and help couples enter marriage with confidence and mutual understanding.
If you have questions about Marital Agreements or would like us to prepare one for you, please contact our family team for clear and practical advice.
More couples than ever are choosing to live together without getting married. However, many people are unaware that unmarried partners do not share the same legal rights or protections as married couples or those in civil partnerships. This can lead to uncertainty, particularly around property, finances and what happens if the relationship ends.
If you are moving in together or going through a separation, it’s important to understand your position and get the right legal advice.
How we can help
Our family law team has extensive experience advising unmarried couples on their rights and the practical steps they can take to protect themselves. We can:
Julia Buckingham, who has a strong background in property law, specialises in cohabitation disputes and the complex issues that can arise when property is involved.
Collaborative Law offers an alternative way to navigate divorce and separation, one that prioritises respect, cooperation and the wellbeing of everyone involved. Instead of taking matters to court, both parties commit to working together with the support of specially trained family lawyers to reach solutions that feel fair and sustainable.
How the collaborative process works
Each person appoints their own collaboratively trained solicitor. All discussions take place in a series of face-to-face meetings, where you and your former partner, along with your solicitors, work through the issues that need to be resolved, such as finances, property and arrangements for children.
The key principles of the collaborative approach include:
Because the aim is to avoid court proceedings altogether, the process often feels less adversarial, less stressful and more constructive than traditional litigation.
Is collaborative law right for you?
Collaborative law can be an excellent option for separating couples who want a more dignified, future-focused approach and are willing to work together to find practical solutions.
If you would like to explore whether the collaborative approach is suitable for your situation, please contact our family law specialists for clear and informed guidance.
Domestic abuse can take many forms: physical, emotional, sexual, economical, psychological, violent or threatening behaviour, controlling or coercive behaviour. It does not matter whether the behaviour consists of a single incident or a course of conduct.
It is deeply harmful, often hidden, and can affect anyone. If you or your family are experiencing abuse, it is vital to seek support as soon as possible. We are here to help you stay safe and understand the legal protections available.
How we can help
Our family law team has extensive experience supporting individuals and families affected by domestic abuse. We prioritise your safety and that of your children, acting quickly and sensitively to secure the protection you need.
We can assist with:
We understand the emotional and practical impact of abusive behaviour, and we work compassionately to help you regain stability and control.
We also advise and represent individuals who have been accused of abusive behaviour. These situations can be complex and highly distressing, and we can provide clear, robust representation to ensure your position is properly understood and protected.
Kate Jackson is accredited by Resolution as a specialist in domestic abuse , reflecting our commitment to offering sensitive, informed and effective support in these highly complex cases.
Butcher Andrews
1 Old Post Office Street
Fakenham
Norfolk, NR21 9BL
Tel: (01328) 863131
Email: [email protected]
Butcher Andrews
15 Market Place
Holt
Norfolk, NR25 6BE
Tel: (01263) 712023
Email: [email protected]
Fakenham:
Tel: (01328) 863131
Email: [email protected]
Holt:
Tel: (01263) 712023
Email: [email protected]
