Family, children & divorce solicitors

Family law at Stephensons

We are one of a handful of firms nationally with the strength to handle every type of family law case, from a straightforward divorce to the most complex breakdowns involving disputes with children, high value matrimonial assets and international issues.

Our children lawyers deal with some of the most challenging cases involving social services intervention to removal of children; cases which include allegations of brain injury, shaken baby syndrome, sexual abuse, Munchausen’s syndrome, fabricated illness, the murder of the parent by another, allegations that a parent is involved in terrorism (including ISIS) or that a parent is involved in organised crime or criminal gangs.

We have excellent relationships with specialist barristers, accountants, independent financial advisers, surveyors, medical specialists, counsellors, agencies supporting children and survivors of abuse. When we take on your case we step in your shoes and help you through what is probably the most distressing experience of your life; the breakdown of a relationship or the threat of the loss of your child.

Our family team includes members of the Law Society’s Children Panel Accreditation Scheme as well as a significant number of Resolution accredited specialists.

Family, children & divorce - areas of specialism

• Divorce law

• Children law - disputes, access & care proceedings

• Child care proceedings

• Agreements & financial settlements

• Ending a civil partnership

• Representation in family court - advocacy

• Fixed price services

Our specialist family solicitors are held in the highest regard by the Legal 500 and the Chambers Guide to the Legal Profession. “The team gives it all, no matter how large or small the case” The Chambers Guide to the Legal Profession.

Chambers UK

Michael Devlin enjoys a stellar reputation in legally aided child protection work, regularly representing children, local authorities and guardians in care proceedings. He is also noted for his capabilities in adoption proceedings with peers regarding him as “fantastic”. The team as a whole was ranked in the 2018 edition. 

Legal 500

Stephensons Solicitors LLP has an ‘outstanding reputation in respect of family law’. Mike Devlin is a ‘composed and thoughtful advocate who is always extremely well prepared’ and Victoria Gethin is ‘efficient and caring’. Amanda Rimmer has particular expertise in high net-worth divorces and is ‘with her clients every step of the way’. Gwyneth John deals with all aspects of the law affecting children and is ‘extremely thoughtful and warm yet able to be assertive when needed’. Andrew Mountain is a ‘powerful advocate with enormous experience’. Tim Galbraith  is a ‘very astute lawyer with a keen eye for detail who masters complex issues with ease and presents them simply and accurately to clients and professionals alike’. Jackie Price is efficient and compassionate’. This is a team that is ‘well respected by other professionals and by the judiciary’.

Award winning family law team

2016 - Solicitors Journal Awards - Family Team of the Year

2015 - Mike Devlin - Shortlisted Manchester Law Society - Partner of the Year

2015 - Shortlisted Liverpool Law Society Family Law Firm of the Year

2015 - Mike Devlin - Shortlisted - Jordan’s Family Law Partner of the Year

2014 - Jordan’s - Family Law Firm of the Year

2012 - Mike Devlin - Manchester Law Society Legal Aid Lawyer of the Year