How it works
Every family is different, but the path through a divorce or custody case is not. Here is what happens at each stage, what we ask of you, and how long it usually takes.
1
Stage 1 of 6
Day one, free, about 20 minutes
A short, confidential call. Nothing you say commits you to anything, and you choose how we contact you afterwards.
What you do
Tell us what is happening, in your own words, and ask anything you want.
What we do
Listen, explain your realistic options and the likely cost, and say honestly whether we are the right firm.
2
Stage 2 of 6
Within a week
You get a plain-English plan in writing, so you always know what comes next and what it will cost.
3
Stage 3 of 6
Usually 4 to 8 weeks
Both sides share their financial information. It is the dull part, and the part that protects you most.
What you do
Collect pay slips, account statements and debts using our checklist. We tell you what is enough.
What we do
Organise everything, check the other side’s documents and spot what is missing before it becomes a problem.
4
Stage 4 of 6
Usually 1 to 3 months
Most families settle here. We aim for an agreement you can live with, not a win on paper.
What you do
Tell us your priorities and attend mediation sessions, with us beside you or on call.
What we do
Put proposals in writing, negotiate firmly and prepare you for every session, so there are no surprises.
5
Stage 5 of 6
A few weeks to several months
If you agree, we turn it into a settlement the court accepts. If you cannot, we prepare early and present your case.
What you do
Review and sign the agreement, or prepare with us if you need to speak at a hearing.
What we do
Draft the settlement and parenting plan, or argue your case clearly and calmly in court.
6
Stage 6 of 6
2 to 6 weeks after agreement
The judge signs the order. We make sure it says what was agreed and that you understand what it means.
What you do
Keep your copy safe and tell us if anything stops working later.
What we do
File the paperwork, check the order line by line and explain when you might need to come back.
Good to know
Real cases loop back, pause and speed up. A few things stay true the whole way through.
Very few of our cases end in a trial. Preparing properly is what makes a fair settlement possible.
If you need time, or want to try counselling or mediation first, we stop the clock and wait with you.
Every proposal we make is tested against one question: does this work for the children’s real week?
A free 20-minute call with a family lawyer. You choose how we contact you, and nothing you say commits you to anything.