We were described as an 'exceptionally strong team' in Chambers Legal Directory 2021, which reflects the strength and depth of our expertise in family law and our ability to consistently secure favourable outcomes for our clients - both in and out of court. We are regularly consulted by other legal firms from intra UK and abroad for input into cross jurisdictional matters. Having English qualified solicitors in the team means we can also represent clients in intra UK disputes.

We have significant experience in advising on complex, contentious and negotiated  high-value divorces, dissolution of civil partnerships and cohabitation claims. We regularly act for high net worth individuals, ex-pats based abroad, entrepreneurs, public figures and high profile individuals. We embrace diversity and inclusion firm wide.

Notwithstanding our strong litigation profile, where possible we are committed to resolving disputes through negotiation and discussion. We also have team experts in all aspects of alternative dispute resolution such as Arbitration (Flags), CALM mediation and Collaborative Law.

We serve Scotland from Orkney and Shetland to Aberdeen and the Scottish Borders, from our offices in Glasgow and Edinburgh.

How we can help you

Divorce and separation

No one plans for divorce or separation - these are amongst the most stressful events in life. But they happen to around 10,000 couples each year in Scotland. We have expertise ranging from very complex financial settlements involving businesses and international assets to more straightforward negotiations and separation agreements

Child related disputes

We know your top concern is often what will happen to your children, and can advise on how to resolve where children will live after divorce, as well as matters such as child maintenance and school fees  

Pre- and postnuptial agreements

We can help if you are planning to get married (or are already happily married) but want to agree what would happen to some or all of your assets if you were to separate

International family law advice

We have extensive experience with international divorce, advising expats or those with overseas assets on divorce

Child relocation and child abduction 

 If your former partner has taken your child to another country, or you wish to relocate yourself, we can help

Unmarried couples' rights

There is widespread misunderstanding and confusion about the rights and responsibilities of unmarried couples when they separate - we can provide essential advice to help you through this  

Cohabitation agreements 

 If buying a house or moving in together (but not marrying), an agreement setting out what would happen if you separate can be invaluable

Avoiding Court

We have qualified and accredited family law mediators and arbitrators for those looking to resolve their disputes outwith court

English divorce advice

As one of the few firms in the UK to have family lawyers qualified in both Scots and English law, we can provide advice on both legal systems

Farming divorce

We have particular expertise in dealing with the issues which arise for farmers and their spouses

Adoption

If you are looking to adopt, we can guide you through the process

Education Placing Appeals 

We are instructed by local authorities placing request appeals - most of which run to a full evidential hearing.  Our success rate across the team is almost unblemished. These types of cases are fast paced pieces of work taking approximately 8 weeks from start to finish to conclude. There is often voluminous papers to consider in preparation. We have an advantage having acted in a large volume of these cases as we know what to look for and what to ask meaning our preparation is accurate and efficient

Adults with Incapacity

We have experience in applying for guardianship on behalf of family members (whether young or old) who can no longer make decisions for themselves

To help you budget, we aim where possible to offer you fixed fees for specific aspects of the work we do on your case, so you have greater certainty and clarity about your legal costs.

Our Family Law team is top ranked by Chambers and Partners.