Separation & Divorce

Separation and divorce bring big decisions, and the right guidance early on can make all the difference. At Paradigm Family Law, we help you understand your options from the outset so you can move forward with confidence.

If most divorces settle out of court, how do you know what a fair outcome looks like?

One of the most important decisions you can make at the start of your divorce or separation is how you choose to resolve it. A striking 86% of financial cases settle before they ever reach a final hearing — yet most couples begin the process without any clear idea of what a judge would actually decide.

That is why early evaluation within the Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) “Family” are now central to modern family law. At Paradigm Family Law, we specialise in private Financial Dispute Resolution (FDR) hearings and judge-led guidance that provides clarity long before costs escalate. We successfully helped our clients during their mediation and represented them in Arbitration. And for those who want the same judicial insight without the expense of a full private FDR, ask us about our sister firm whatwouldajudgesay.com — so you’ll know exactly what a judge would say about your divorce in just six weeks.

Knowing your likely settlement upfront is powerful: it focuses negotiations, reduces hostility, and puts you firmly back in control. Before you begin the process, it’s worth asking — why negotiate blindly when you could start with clarity?

Your Financial Disclosure: The Foundation of a Fair Settlement

At the heart of every divorce or separation is one essential truth: you cannot reach a fair settlement unless you understand your financial picture. This begins with full and accurate financial disclosure — most commonly Form E, the document used by the family court to list each party’s assets, income, pensions, property, liabilities, business interests, and future needs.

Many clients tell us this stage feels overwhelming, but it is the foundation upon which every negotiation, valuation, and judicial decision is built.

At Paradigm Family Law, we:

For those with international assets, trusts, companies, or complex cross-border wealth structures, we work with a trusted network of Independent Financial Advisers (IFAs) with specialist expertise in multinational and high-complexity disclosure. They assist us in tracing assets, obtaining valuations, and clarifying the financial reality behind the numbers.

Getting disclosure right at the start means that any evaluation — whether through ADR, a private FDR, or whatwouldajudgesay.com — is based on clear, complete, and reliable information. Understanding your financials is not just paperwork; it is the key to securing a settlement that reflects your true position and protects your future.

How Can We Help?

Family law matters can be emotional, complex, and overwhelming. Getting timely, specialist advice ensures your rights are protected and gives you the clarity and confidence to move forward. At Paradigm Family Law, we guide you through every stage of your case with a calm, strategic, and non-adversarial approach wherever possible.

Our Core Services

Our Specialist Expertise

We have considerable experience acting in complex, high-stakes and international cases, including:

Foreign divorces under the Matrimonial and Family Proceedings Act 1984
Contested international jurisdiction disputes, including “forum shopping”
Cases involving asset concealment, dissipation, or freezing-order considerations
High-value (“big money”) financial remedy cases with cross-border elements

Complex company, business, or partnership structures
Offshore trusts (“Anstalt”, “Liechtenstein Treuhand”) and international corporate vehicles
Inherited or pre-acquired wealth disputes
Pension cases involving one or more foreign or specialist pension schemes
International enforcement disputes
Schedule 1 Children Act 1989 applications with international elements

A Strategic, Senior-Led Approach

Wherever possible, we promote a pragmatic, solution-focused way of working to help you avoid unnecessary conflict and cost. If your matter cannot be resolved through negotiation or ADR, we have deep expertise in court procedure and can provide strong, effective advocacy throughout litigation.

If you need support or would like an initial confidential conversation, contact us at info@paradigmfamilylaw.co.uk or call 01904 217225 for expert legal advice.

Recent Testimonials

Because of the international nature of my case, I needed a lawyer experienced in both English and German law. Frank quickly brought clarity to a long-running dispute, offering excellent strategic advice with reassurance and kindness. His professionalism and humanity stood out, and I would recommend him without hesitation.

Stephanie

Frank was a pleasure to work with while navigating a complex divorce involving high-value business assets. The case progressed all the way to the High Court and was settled on the day. An extremely challenging process was made far more manageable thanks to the firm’s friendly, timely and sensible support throughout.

E.T.

This is the second time Evelyn has supported me, and I would not hesitate to contact her again. She is approachable, kind and down to earth, yet extremely professional and knowledgeable in family law. I am deeply grateful for how she went above and beyond to help me during a difficult time.

Laura Stead