Word of mouth remains a powerful way to find a reliable solicitor. Ask trusted friends or relatives who’ve been through a divorce for their recommendations. They can offer insights into law firms and individual lawyers who provided excellent service—and caution you about those who did not. Remember, though, that everyone’s needs differ; a solicitor who suited someone else may not be the right fit for you.

Yes. Searching for solicitors in your area and visiting their websites can help you learn about their specialities and expertise. A firm that regularly updates its site, providing blogs and news items, demonstrates both currency and engagement with developments in family law. You should also be able to read profiles of individual solicitors, including information on their specific areas of practice.

A practice focusing solely on divorce, children matters, and family law will naturally have greater depth of experience with these issues. This means they’re better positioned to advise you based on significant hands-on knowledge of the complexities surrounding divorce and separation.

These directories offer independent assessments of solicitors and law firms. If advice from friends or family is insufficient, checking Chambers and The Legal 500 can be a reliable way to gauge a lawyer’s track record and quality of service. You can search for recommendations in your region on both sites.

Many clients value having their solicitor locally, so they can meet face to face. Since the pandemic, however, many solicitors also hold online video consultations. While phone and email remain common, face-to-face or virtual appointments can help you feel more at ease—choose the method that suits you best.

Absolutely. Check the firm’s website or the SRA’s online register to ensure they are authorised and regulated. You might also look for affiliation with The Law Society. These credentials guarantee that the firm abides by professional standards.

Yes. Resolution promotes constructive and amicable solutions in family law disputes. Membership indicates a commitment to resolving conflict in a way that preserves dignity and minimises distress—a clear sign that the firm aims to reduce conflict wherever possible.

Yes. Many people check platforms such as Trustpilot or Google reviews to gauge a firm’s reputation. Client testimonials are also often displayed on the firm’s own website. This research can help you understand the experiences of previous clients.

Certainly. You should work with someone you feel comfortable speaking to about personal matters. If it’s important to you, don’t hesitate to request a male or female solicitor.

At your first meeting, ask about fees. Some firms offer fixed-fee arrangements; others charge an hourly rate. The more senior the solicitor, the higher their hourly rate may be, so find out who will be handling your case. Also ask about the frequency of billing and how they’ll keep you updated on costs. A reputable firm will provide a fee estimate up front.

A specialist solicitor ensures you seek a fair financial outcome and helps agree key issues such as child arrangements. While you can technically divorce without legal representation, certain scenarios strongly benefit from professional help, such as:

• Uncertainty over where children will live
• Joint debts or complex assets (e.g., business ownership, trusts, or overseas funds)
• Situations involving abuse or potential hostility
• Feeling overwhelmed by legal processes

A good family solicitor will:

• Clarify the divorce process and offer practical options
• Interpret and handle complex legal documents
• Represent you in court if proceedings arise

Yes. You should always discuss your budget. Solicitors’ fees can vary widely depending on their experience, location, and your case’s complexity. Ensuring clarity on costs is essential. A solicitor who’s transparent about fees and possible outcomes is more likely to inspire trust and confidence.

A quality divorce lawyer will provide realistic advice based on their expertise, rather than raising false hopes about costs or outcomes. Their familiarity with similar cases will help you feel more confident in the steps ahead.

Need Further Advice? Contact HM & Co. Solicitors If you’re seeking a trusted divorce solicitor, we’re here to assist.

HM & Co. Solicitors
186 Lower Road
Surrey Quays
London SE16 2UN

Telephone: 02071128180
Email: info@hmsolicitorsltd.com

We offer a personalised approach, backed by experience in all aspects of family law. Our goal is to guide you through your divorce with empathy, clarity, and professionalism.