Family Law Solicitors in Buckingham Compassionate, Clear, and Supportive Legal Help When You Need It Most
When family life changes, you need advice that is calm, practical and focused on outcomes. Chandler Ray’s family law team in Buckingham provides clear guidance across divorce, finances, arrangements for children and relationship planning. We aim to resolve issues constructively and avoid court where possible, protecting relationships and reducing cost and stress.
Led by experienced family law expert Lee Bailham, we combine our legal expertise with a responsive, client‑first approach. In October 2023, Chandler Ray was acquired by one of the region’s leading law practices - Heald Solicitors who are based in Milton Keynes. Clients in Buckingham now benefit from the combined strength of the two trusted and respected legal practices, whilst retaining Chandler Ray’s local identity and gaining seamless access to Heald’s wider specialist teams. The merged practice serves clients across the Buckingham and Milton Keynes areas.
Why Choose Chandler Ray for Family Law?
- Focused. Fair. Future‑proof. We take a resolute, child‑centred approach to family disputes, prioritising constructive negotiation and achieving settlement out of court whenever it delivers the best outcome for you and your children.
- Experts in every aspect of family law. From complex financial restructuring to sensitive child arrangements and strategic relationship planning, our specialist team brings clarity, precision, and authority to every case we handle.
- Discreet meeting locations. With both of our offices well away from the High St you can visit us at whichever office is best for you, and we also have ample onsite free parking for our clients.
Our Family Law Services
Divorce & Financial Matters
Every separation is unique. We explain your options in plain English, prioritise early financial clarity (including property, maintenance and pensions) and negotiate robustly to secure a fair settlement—issuing court proceedings only when necessary. Virtual meetings are available to suit your schedule.
Child Arrangements (Residence & Contact)
We help parents agree workable arrangements for where children live, time with each parent, holidays and communication, by always putting children’s best interests first. Where agreement is not possible, we guide you through mediation and court processes to obtain or formalise Child Arrangements Orders.
Parental Rights & Responsibilities
We advise on parental responsibility (PR) who has it, how to obtain it (e.g., agreement, court order, or by being named on the birth certificate) and your rights to be consulted on major decisions such as schooling, relocation and medical treatment.
Cohabitation Agreements
There is no such thing as “common law marriage.” If you live together without marrying or entering a civil partnership, a tailored cohabitation agreement can define ownership, contributions and arrangements for children, reducing conflict if you later separate.
Pre‑ and Post‑Nuptial Agreements
Nuptial agreements provide clarity and help protect family wealth, businesses, inheritances and children from previous relationships. While not automatically binding, courts generally give substantial weight to well‑prepared, fair agreements with full disclosure and independent advice.
Separation & Financial Agreements
If you’re not ready to divorce, a separation agreement can formalise who lives where, who pays what, interim child arrangements and how assets are held pending a final settlement—offering stability and a roadmap for the future.
Applications to Vary an Order
Circumstances change. We advise on varying child arrangements or maintenance and make court applications where appropriate, always with the child’s welfare and legal criteria in mind.
Unmarried Couples: Finances & Children
From property interests to child arrangements and financial provision, we provide joined‑up advice for couples who are not married or in a civil partnership, aiming to resolve matters swiftly and proportionately.
Speak to our Family Law Team
If you need advice on any divorce, finances, children or relationship planning issues, our empathetic team are here to help you. Either call us, or email us and let us know when would be a good time to call you back.
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FAQ's
I have been served with a divorce petition what should I do?
You should read the petition carefully and seek legal advice promptly. Divorce and financial matters are separate legal processes, meaning you will need to respond to the divorce application and begin considering your financial position. Our family law solicitors will explain your options, prepare your response, and advise you on how to protect your financial interests throughout the proceedings. Acting quickly helps ensure deadlines are met and that your case is handled strategically from the outset.
Do I have to attend mediation (MIAM) before going to court?
In most cases involving children or finances, the law requires you to attend a Mediation Information & Assessment Meeting (MIAM) before making an application to court. Exceptions apply where there is evidence of domestic abuse or another valid exemption. We will assess whether you must attend and guide you through the process where required.
Can we enforce or change a Child Arrangements Order if it no longer works?
Yes. A Child Arrangements Order may be enforced if breached or varied where circumstances have changed, such as the child’s needs, parents’ working hours, or living arrangements. We advise on the evidence required, seek agreement where possible, and prepare variation or enforcement applications when necessary.
I’m an unmarried father — how do I get parental responsibility?
Unmarried fathers usually have parental responsibility (PR) if they are named on the child’s birth certificate. If not, PR can be acquired by agreement with the child’s mother or by applying to the court. We prepare the necessary documentation and represent you throughout the process.
Is “common law marriage” recognised in England & Wales?
No. Cohabiting couples do not obtain automatic financial claims or rights similar to married couples. A cohabitation agreement is the best way to protect interests relating to property, finances and arrangements for children.
Can maintenance or other court orders be varied later?
Yes. Maintenance orders and certain child arrangement orders can be varied if there is a material change in circumstances. We assess your situation, advise on the likelihood of success and, where appropriate, prepare and issue a variation application.