Family Law Solicitors in Glasgow
Family matters are among the most personal and emotionally challenging areas of law. At Norman Lawson & Co., we understand the sensitivity involved and are committed to providing supportive, practical legal advice that puts your family's best interests first.
Whether you are going through a separation, need help with child arrangements, or are facing a domestic abuse situation, our family law team will guide you through the process with professionalism and care. We aim to resolve matters as amicably as possible, but when court proceedings are necessary, we will provide strong, determined representation to protect your rights.
Divorce & Separation
If your marriage or civil partnership has broken down, we can advise you on the legal process for divorce or dissolution. In Scotland, you can apply for divorce on the grounds of irretrievable breakdown, which can be established by one or two years of separation (depending on whether your spouse consents) or by the behaviour of your spouse.
We will guide you through every stage of the process, including:
- Filing for divorce or dissolution of civil partnership
- Simplified (uncontested) divorce applications
- Contested divorce proceedings
- Separation agreements
- Division of matrimonial property and assets
- Financial provision on divorce, including lump sum payments and transfer of property
- Pension sharing orders
Children & Child Custody
When parents separate, agreeing on arrangements for children can be one of the most difficult aspects. In Scotland, the law focuses on what is in the best interests of the child. We can help you reach fair, workable arrangements, either through negotiation or, where necessary, through the courts.
Our team can assist with:
- Residence orders – Determining where your child will live
- Contact orders – Arranging time with the non-resident parent, including overnight and holiday contact
- Parental responsibilities and rights – Establishing or challenging parental rights under the Children (Scotland) Act 1995
- Relocation – When one parent wishes to move away with the child
- Grandparents' rights – Helping grandparents maintain contact with grandchildren
- Child welfare hearings – Representation at Children's Hearings and related proceedings
Cohabitation & Unmarried Partners
If you are in a cohabiting relationship that has broken down, your legal rights may differ from those of married couples. Under the Family Law (Scotland) Act 2006, cohabitants may be entitled to financial provision on separation. We can advise you on your rights and help you resolve disputes over property, finances, and children.
Domestic Abuse & Protection Orders
If you or your children are at risk of domestic abuse, we can help you obtain emergency protection. Our solicitors act quickly to secure the orders you need to keep your family safe, including:
- Non-harassment orders – Preventing further contact or harassment
- Exclusion orders – Removing an abusive partner from the family home
- Interdicts – Court orders to prevent specific actions
- Powers of arrest – Attached to interdicts for immediate police response
We treat all domestic abuse cases with the utmost confidentiality and urgency. Legal aid is often available for protective orders, and we can help you apply.
Financial Disputes
Separating finances after a relationship breaks down can be complex, particularly where there are significant assets, business interests, or debts. We can advise on the fair division of property and financial provision, ensuring your interests are properly represented whether through negotiation or court proceedings.
Mediation & Alternative Dispute Resolution
We believe that where possible, family disputes should be resolved without the stress and expense of court proceedings. We can advise you on mediation and collaborative law options, helping you reach agreements that work for everyone involved, especially children. Where agreement is not possible, we will not hesitate to take matters to court to protect your rights.
Legal Aid for Family Law
We are registered with the Scottish Legal Aid Board (SLAB) and can assist eligible clients with legal aid funding for family law matters. This includes divorce, child custody, contact disputes, and domestic abuse protection orders. Legal aid means that financial circumstances need not be a barrier to getting the help you need. We also accept private fee-paying instructions.