Family law - matrimonial
Taylor&Emmet’s experienced matrimonial team can provide you with expert advice and a sympathetic ear on a range of issues.
Our priority is to resolve disputes as fairly and amicably as possible without lengthy legal battles, but if it is necessary to go to court, your case will be dealt with skilfully, sensitively and efficiently. We are also able to handle urgent cases and matters involving international law.
All of our family lawyers are specialists in their chosen field and as members of Resolution, they are committed to helping couples achieve a fair settlement by negotiation and meetings (collaboration) where possible.
- We specialise in...
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We specialise in:
Change your name online - Want to change your name online. The process enables you to change your name in the United Kingdom. If you are over 18 and you are looking to change your name we can prepare all the paperwork for you quickly and easily for fixed fee of £30 including VAT.
Pre-Nuptial Agreements - These are agreements entered into before a marriage which set out the way in which the prospective husband and wife will hold their assets when they are married
Separation Agreements - Separation agreements are becoming more popular mainly because there is no interference from the court and it gives both parties peace of mind before deciding on whether or not to legally divorce.
Same sex relationships - Couples who sign a civil partnership registration document commit themselves to a range of rights and responsibilities.
Unmarried couple disputes - Despite the fact unmarried couples are able to buy property together, have children together, and make wills in each other’s favour, it may come as a surprise to know that they have little or no recognition or financial protection when the relationship ends.
Domestic violence - Domestic violence can happen to anyone and in all kinds of relationships. People suffer domestic violence regardless of their social group, class, age, race, disability, sexuality and lifestyle.
Children - Disputes between both married and unmarried parents in relation to the welfare and upbringing of their children can arise at any time. Parents have rights and responsibilities in relation to their children which are ongoing until the child has grown up.
Pensions - As a consequence of more competitive salaries, increasing property prices and buoyant investment portfolios, pensions can now in fact form a large proportion of the family asset base.
Child Support and Maintenance - Child maintenance is the money paid by the non resident parent to the parent with care to help pay for their children's everyday living costs.
Financial and Property Settlements - There are many consequences to be considered as a result of a marriage break down. It is inevitable that disputes will arise in relation to the division of the assets that have been accumulated by the parties
Divorce - Relationships are more than just facts and figures, but for your sake, it is our job to know the numbers.
Claims against estate of the deceased - Wills are an important part of planning for the future and they are particularly important for unmarried couples.
Collaborative law - The collaborative family law process is a relatively new way of dealing with family disputes. Each person appoints their own lawyer but instead of conducting negotiations between you and your partner by letter or phone you meet together to work things out face to face.


- Meet the team
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Family law - matrimonial team
All of our family lawyers are specialists in their chosen field and as members of Resolution, they are committed to helping couples achieve a fair settlement by negotiation and meetings (collaboration) where possible.
Michaela Heathcote
Partner and head of matrimonial lawMichaela is a family law specialist and qualified Collaborative lawyer who deals mainly with matters arising from family breakdowns, particularly financial affairs and arrangements for children.
Pat Lennon
PartnerPat is a well-known and highly respected family law specialist and the majority of new cases come to her via referrals from other Sheffield professionals or previous clients.
Fay Bunting
SolicitorFay has broad experience in all areas of family law, but specialises in the financial consequences of family breakdowns. She also deals with related issues including divorce and private law children disputes.
Katherine Porter
Legal executiveKatherine joined Taylor&Emmet in May 2010. She deals primarily with legal aid divorces, but also provides clients with guidance about financial matters and children issues.
Lucy Hartley
SolicitorLucy deals with various issues arising from family breakdowns, including divorce and separation, financial and property settlements, pre-marital and pre-civil agreements and separation agreements.
Elizabeth Cassidy
SolicitorElizabeth has experience in dealing with all matters arising from family breakdowns, including divorce and separation, financial and property disputes, pre-marital and pre-civil agreements and separation agreements.
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