Family law services in Bridgwater

A summary of the family law services we provide in Bridgwater.

Somerset-based family law solicitor Harriet Day highlights the family law services we provide in Bridgwater.

Family issues can be emotionally challenging and often involve important decisions about your future, your finances, and your children. At Slee Blackwell Solicitors, our experienced family law team provides clear, practical advice and compassionate support to clients throughout Bridgwater and the surrounding area.

Divorce

The breakdown of a marriage can be one of life’s most difficult experiences. We provide expert guidance throughout the divorce process, helping clients navigate the legal requirements while focusing on achieving the best possible outcome for themselves and their families.

Among the funding options we offer is a fixed fee divorce scheme.

Financial Settlements

Reaching a financial settlement is often one of the most important aspects of a separation or divorce. Whether financial matters are agreed between the parties or remain contested, we can advise on issues including property, savings, pensions, business interests and ongoing financial support, helping to secure a settlement that protects your future.

Non-Molestation Orders and Occupation Orders

If you are experiencing domestic abuse, harassment, threats, or controlling behaviour, urgent legal protection may be available. Our solicitors can advise on and assist with applications for Non-Molestation Orders and Occupation Orders, helping to safeguard you and your family when you need support most.

Children Act Proceedings

When parents cannot agree on arrangements for their children, the courts can become involved. We regularly advise on matters relating to where children live, the time they spend with each parent, parental responsibility and other issues arising under the Children Act 1989. Our focus is always on promoting the welfare and best interests of the child.

Pre-Nuptial Agreements and Cohabitation Agreements

A carefully drafted pre-nuptial agreement can provide clarity and certainty for couples entering marriage. We advise clients on preparing and reviewing pre-nuptial agreements, helping them protect assets and reduce the risk of future disputes.

We can also assist with preparing a cohabitation agreement.

Family Law Solicitors Serving Bridgwater

Whatever family law issue you are facing, our aim is to provide straightforward legal advice, practical solutions and sensitive support during what can often be a difficult period.

If you need advice about divorce, financial settlements, children matters, domestic abuse protection or pre-nuptial/cohabitation agreements in Bridgwater, contact our family law team for a confidential discussion.

Call our free legal helpline for an initial consultation on 0333 888 0404 or email [email protected]

Bridgwater family law solicitors

Bridgwater family law solicitors – Trusted legal advice.

Somerset-based family law solicitor Harriet Day looks at how we can help with a range of legal issues. We have been independently ranked in the top three law solicitors in Somerset for family law out of 160 law firms*, so contact Harriet today.

When family relationships break down, obtaining clear, jargon-free legal advice at an early stage can make a big difference. Whether you are facing divorce, separation, disputes involving children or finances, or you have concerns about domestic abuse, obtaining specialist legal support from experienced family solicitors can help you move forward with confidence.

Our family law team in Somerset provides expert legal advice to clients throughout Bridgwater and the surrounding areas, including:

• North Petherton,
• Cannington,
• Puriton,
• Westonzoyland,
• Pawlett,
• Wembdon,
• Bawdrip,
• Nether Stowey, and
• Burnham-on-Sea.

Family Law Solicitors Serving Bridgwater

Family law matters are often among the most stressful challenges people face. Our solicitors understand the emotional impact that separation, divorce, and disputes involving children can have on individuals and families.

Our approach is focused on achieving practical solutions while minimising conflict wherever possible. As members of specialist family law organisations, our team embraces a solution-focused and non-confrontational approach, helping clients resolve issues efficiently and cost-effectively.

Divorce Solicitors in Bridgwater

If your marriage has broken down, our family law team can guide you through every stage of the divorce process.

We can assist with:

• Divorce applications
• Separation agreements
• Financial settlements
• Pension sharing arrangements
• Property disputes following separation

Our aim is to help clients achieve fair outcomes while reducing unnecessary conflict and expense. We also offer transparent pricing and fixed-fee divorce services where appropriate.

Child Arrangements and Children’s Law

When parents separate, concerns about children are often the most important issue.

Our specialist family solicitors can advise on:

• Child arrangements
• Living and contact arrangements
• Parental responsibility
• Relocation issues
• Specific issue applications
• Child welfare concerns

Members of our team are accredited in specialist family and children law, ensuring clients receive advice from lawyers with substantial expertise in this complex area of law. We are also recommended by Chambers directory.

Domestic Abuse and Emergency Protection

If you are experiencing domestic abuse, obtaining legal advice quickly is essential.

We can advise on:

• Non-molestation orders
• Occupation orders
• Emergency injunctions
• Child protection issues

Family Mediation and Alternative Dispute Resolution

Not every family dispute needs to end up in court.

Where appropriate, we can advise on:

• Family mediation
• Collaborative law
• Negotiated settlements
• Out-of-court dispute resolution

A constructive approach can often save both time and legal costs while helping preserve family relationships wherever possible.

Why Choose Our Bridgwater Family Law Solicitors?

People searching online for “family solicitors Bridgwater”, “divorce solicitors Bridgwater” or “child custody solicitor Bridgwater” want more than technical legal expertise. They want reassurance, practical advice, and solicitors who genuinely understand what they are going through.

Our family law team offers:

• Free initial telephone consultations for new family law clients
• Fixed-fee services where appropriate
• Specialist family and children law expertise
• Flexible appointment arrangements
• Transparent legal costs
• A compassionate and practical approach to resolving disputes

Our firm has been independently recognised as one of the leading providers of family law services in the Taunton and Somerset area.

Frequently Asked Questions About Family Law

Does your family law team act for clients in Bridgwater?

Yes. We regularly assist clients throughout Bridgwater and the surrounding Somerset villages, including North Petherton, Wembdon, Cannington, Puriton, Pawlett and Westonzoyland.

Can I get a free consultation?

New family law clients are offered an initial telephone consultation free of charge, allowing us to assess your situation and discuss the options available.

Do you offer fixed fees?

Yes. Fixed-fee divorce services are available where appropriate, with transparent pricing throughout your case.

Do I need a solicitor even if we agree everything?

Even where matters are amicable, obtaining legal advice can help ensure any agreement is properly documented and legally effective.

Speak to a Family Solicitor Today

If you are looking for experienced Bridgwater family solicitors, divorce solicitors in Bridgwater, or legal advice relating to children, separation or financial settlements, our Somerset family law team is here to help.

We provide specialist family law advice with a focus on achieving practical, cost-effective solutions that allow you to move forward with confidence.

Call us on 0333 888 0404 or email [email protected] for a free initial consultation.

*ReviewSolicitors July 2026.

What Financial Settlement Am I Entitled to When Separating?

Taunton divorce solicitor Harriet Day answers the commonly asked question: ‘What financial settlement am I entitled to when separating?’

One of the biggest concerns for separating couples is how their finances will be divided. Whether you are married, in a civil partnership, or coming out of a long‑term relationship, understanding your financial rights is essential.

Taunton family law solicitor, Harriet Day, advises clients in Somerset and Bristol on achieving fair and practical financial settlements. In this article, she explains the key issues couples commonly face and how we can help you resolve them.

What Is a Financial Settlement?

A financial settlement is the legal process of dividing a couple’s assets and income when they separate. It can include:

• property
• savings
• pensions
• business interests
• debts
• maintenance payments

A settlement can be reached through negotiation, mediation, or, as a last resort, court proceedings.

What Can Be Included in a Financial Settlement?

Harriet specialises in securing fair and workable financial arrangements for separating couples, including:

• Division of property and equity
• Pension sharing and pension attachment orders
• Spousal maintenance
• Lump‑sum payments
• Child maintenance arrangements
• Separation agreements
• Clean break orders
• Financial orders by consent
• Disputes involving business assets or inherited wealth

Contentious Financial Disputes Between Separating Couples

Disputes can arise for many reasons, including:

• disagreements over property value
• disputes about contributions
• concerns about hidden assets
• complex pension arrangements
• business ownership
• inherited wealth
• unequal earning capacity

Harriet helps clients resolve these disputes through:

• negotiation
• solicitor‑led correspondence
• mediation
• round‑table meetings
• court applications where necessary

What Factors Are Considered When Resolving Financial Settlements?

Every case is different, and the outcome will depend on a range of factors, including:

• the length of the relationship
• each person’s income and earning capacity
• housing needs
• childcare responsibilities
• contributions to the marriage (financial and non‑financial)
• pensions and long‑term financial security

Harriet provides clear, practical advice to help you understand what a fair settlement looks like and how best to achieve it.

Do I Need a Solicitor for a Financial Settlement?

While some couples can agree matters themselves, many benefit from specialist legal advice, especially where a dispute arises and:

• there are children
• there is a family home
• pensions are involved
• one person earns significantly more
• there are business assets
• there is a risk of unfairness

A solicitor ensures your settlement is legally binding and protects your future financial security.

How Harriet and Our Taunton Family Law Team Can Help You

As Taunton’s top‑ranked family law firm on ReviewSolicitors*, we offer:

• specialist advice on financial settlements
• fixed‑fee divorce options
• transparent costs
• tailored guidance based on your circumstances
• support from an experienced family law solicitors
• a constructive, solution‑focused approach

Harriet Day is known for her clear communication, practical advice, and ability to help clients reach fair outcomes with confidence.

Get Help Today

If you need advice about financial settlements, divorce, or separation, Harriet and our Taunton family law and divorce team are here to help. Contact us for a free initial discussion, and we will guide you through your options.

Call 0333 888 0404 or email [email protected]

*ReviewSolicitors June 2026.

Slee Blackwell Solicitors LLP is authorised and regulated by the Solicitors Regulation Authority and specialises in divorce and family law.

Divorce solicitors in Taunton

Top rated divorce solicitors in Taunton: Slee Blackwell.

Five-star rated by ReviewSolicitors

Taunton family law solicitor Harriet Day

For a free initial consultation, call us on 0333 888 0419 or email [email protected]

* www.reviewsolicitors.co.uk June 2026.

Focus on recommended contentious probate lawyer, Naomi Ireson

9. Ranked top for contentious probate 

The expertise of Naomi and her team in this niche area of law has led to them being ranked as the number one law firm in the UK for contentious probate by the independent legal review website, ReviewSolicitors*.

10. Contentious Wills & Probate Team of the Year awards

Naomi’s team has also been shortlisted for the prestigious Contentious Wills & Probate Team of the Year award,2026.

*ReviewSolicitors August 2026.

Recommended solicitors in Taunton

If you are searching for recommended solicitors in Taunton then our lawyers are here to help.

Our team of recommended solicitors in Taunton offer a free consultation service. Just phone or email and we will get straight back to you.

Recommended by the Legal 500

The Legal 500 is the independently published clients guide to the best solicitors in the UK and we are very proud of the fact that three of our teams here in Taunton are recommended in the latest edition of the publication.

Recommended by reviewers on the ReviewSolicitors website

We are ranked among the top firms in Taunton by the legal review website, Review Solicitors*.

Our firm has an overall five star rating, with over 1,700 5 star reviews from satisfied clients.

You can read all our reviews by clicking on the green widget. Among the reviews recommending our services to others are:

Claim for Defamation, Misuse of Private Information and Harassment

“From the outset, Zoe’s expertise in managing an exceptionally complex and challenging matter was outstanding. She immediately understood both the detail and wider implications of the situation, and her prompt advice from our very first contact made all the difference. I felt completely supported throughout.

The claim I was required to defend was extensive and challenging in both scope and tone. It could easily have been overwhelming without Zoe’s reliable guidance. She broke down the response process into manageable, strategic steps, always explaining each clearly and without judgment. Her ability to combine close attention to detail with a clear focus on the bigger picture helped keep the case on track and avoided wasted costs, effort, or distraction.

Zoe’s judgment regarding when and how to involve both junior and leading counsel was impeccable, and her management of all communications and procedural steps was consistently prompt, thoughtful, and thorough. She was always generous with her time and able to explain complex legal matters in a way I could understand. Her calmness, professionalism, and kindness made a very difficult period significantly more bearable.

Thanks to Zoe’s expert handling, we achieved what I wanted at settlement under a private contractual agreement, with no order for costs and without compromising on the factors that were most important to me. Throughout, I trusted Zoe completely. Her integrity, insight, and advocacy gave me confidence even in the most stressful moments.

I cannot recommend her highly enough. Zoe brings not only legal excellence but genuine care, and anyone facing a difficult legal situation would be in the safest possible hands with her.”

Expertise and Understanding

“I was tentative about making enquires from Australia with a UK group of solicitors, Slee Blackwell, about a claim on a deceased estate there as an ex-spouse. Right from the get go I was treated with respect and expert advice with Kristi. Anya was instrumental in guiding me through the whole process and I was very impressed with her expertise and obvious knowledge of the situation. If I lived in the UK I wouldn’t hesitate to use this firm again. Thank you to Anya and her team.”

Dispute – Breach Of Trust

“I can’t express enough gratitude to Chris for his outstanding service over the past year. My case was especially challenging, but Chris handled it with compassion and the highest level of professionalism. The outcome was fantastic, and it wouldn’t have been possible without Chris’s expert advice and support. I would strongly recommend his services to anyone who is going through a difficult will dispute. Many thanks again Chris!”

Excellent service

“Slee Blackwell Solicitors have been amazing from the very start. Elizabeth Duncan has been very sympathetic, patient, diligent and persistent. Without her help, I would not have had the positive outcome to my situation. I am grateful for all the assistance, time and effort given. Great service!”

Positive experience

“I contacted Kristi regarding an inheritance matter and she was swift to respond and the issue, which has been ongoing for three years now, was immediately resolved. I highly recommend.”

How our recommended solicitors in Taunton can help you

We deal with a full range of legal services, from conveyancing to dispute resolution, from wills and probate to family law.

We offer a free consultation service which you can access by calling our legal helpline or sending us an email.

Just call us on 0333 888 0404 or email [email protected]

*www.reviewsolicitors.co.uk April 2026.

Fixed Fee Divorce Solicitors in Somerset

Fixed Fee Divorce Solicitors in Somerset: A Clear, Simple and Stress-Free Option.

Slee Blackwell Solicitors are independently ranked among the top divorce solicitors in Somerset*. We offer a range of services and funding options for those who are divorcing, including fixed fees. Contact us for a free initial consultation about your divorce by calling 0333 888 0404 or emailing us at [email protected].

Going through a divorce is tough enough without having to worry about unexpected legal bills. That’s why we offer a fixed fee divorce service.

Here’s why more and more people in Somerset are choosing fixed fee divorces:

No Hidden Costs

With a fixed fee, what you see is what you get. We charge £600 + VAT and disbursements for Applicants and £325 + VAT and disbursements for Respondents.

We offer a free initial consultation and will be happy to explain exactly what’s included (and what isn’t) before we begin. That means no nasty surprises, no mounting hourly charges—just clear, upfront pricing so you know where you stand.

Local, Friendly Legal Advice

As a local firm with a network of offices across Devon and Somerset, we pride ourselves on being approachable and easy to talk to. We take the time to listen, explain your options in plain English, and guide you through each step of the process.

Less Stress at a Difficult Time

Divorce is emotional—we understand that. A fixed fee helps take one more worry off your plate by removing uncertainty around costs. You can focus on moving forward, while we handle the legal side.

Great Value for Straightforward Divorces

Our fixed fee service is often the most cost-effective way to get things done properly and efficiently. You’ll get the benefit of experienced legal support without the price tag of full litigation.

What’s Included in the Fixed Fee?

Our Applicant’s fixed fee divorce service includes:

• An initial call with you to gather all the required information;
• Making the Court application;
• Obtaining the Conditional Order and the Final Order; and
• Providing you with the court Orders for safekeeping.

Please note that the court fee of £612 (payable by the Applicant) is not included in the package. However, if you are on a low income, you may be eligible for a discount or exemption on this fee. Please see our Government Help with Fees article for more details.

If your ex is applying for the divorce and you are the ‘Respondent’, then the work we need to undertake will be less than if we are representing the Applicant. This makes the Respondent’s package cheaper.

We will respond to the steps taken by the Applicant and liaise with their lawyer and the court. No court fees are payable by the Respondent.

If your case involves the need for a financial agreement, property issues, or child arrangements, then we’ll discuss whether you want us to undertake any extra work and, if you do, provide you with an estimate of the cost — no pressure, no surprises.

Please see our Guide to Fixed Fee Divorce and our article on the 10 most frequently asked questions about fixed fee divorce for further details.

Talk to the Team at Slee Blackwell

We’re a friendly, experienced team of solicitors based in Somerset and Devon, and we’ve helped many people across the South West navigate the divorce process with clarity and compassion.

If you are looking for Fixed Fee Divorce Solicitors in Somerset, then give us a call. We’ll help you take the next step with confidence.

Call our confidential helpline on 0333 888 0404 or send an email to [email protected]

Slee Blackwell Solicitors LLP is authorised and regulated by the Solicitors Regulation Authority. We specialise in family law and fixed fee divorce.

*www.reviewsolicitors.co.uk April 2026.