About Us

What is Family Law?

Separation, divorce and disputes over children are momentous and often traumatic events in people’s lives. Their outcome can have profound consequences for the individuals concerned. It is therefore essential that expert legal advice is sought at an early stage.

As the field of family law (by which we mean the law relating to separation and divorce, dissolution of civil partnerships, children, financial issues — including maintenance and pensions — and protection from domestic violence) has grown in volume and complexity, it has become increasingly necessary for lawyers undertaking family work to specialise, rather than be general legal practitioners. It has also been recognised that a good family lawyer needs to develop a different approach to the handling of disputes from what may be appropriate in a case concerning, for example, breach of contract or personal injury. The lawyer has to be sensitive to the very personal nature of a family law dispute, and especially to the needs of any children involved

Who are we?

Ashby Family Law Practice was set up in May 1999 as a niche practice providing a specialist service by Nick Herbert and Greg O’Shea, solicitors with many years of experience in all aspects of family law. We incorporated O’Shea & Co. In 2005 Mr O’Shea retired and David Guthrie joined the firm. Between them, Nick Herbert and David Guthrie have over 40 years’ experience in family law and are two of the most experienced family solicitors in Derby.

Our aim is to guide clients through the intricacies and complexities of family law — be it in relation to separation, divorce or dissolution, children or financial issues — in order to obtain a fair deal with the minimum of acrimony and delay.

We also, of course, advise as to non-contentious family issues such as pre- and post-nuptial agreements, cohabitation agreements, parental responsibility agreements in respect of children, and the implication of financial agreements which spouses or partners have agreed between themselves, and we handle the drafting of wills and residential conveyancing, which are in integral part of resolving family law issues.

Family law continues to develop through new legislation enacted by Parliament, and through case law (decisions of the higher courts in specific cases which are binding on other courts). We keep ourselves abreast of new developments and anticipated legislative changes. In recognition of our expertise in the field, we are members of the Law Society’s Family Law Accreditation Scheme and Resolution (formerly known as the Solicitors Family Law Association).

How can we help you?

We provide an initial 30 minute consultation free of charge. This is normally sufficient to appraise ourselves of the situation and give general advice, including advice as to our costs. Please note that public funding (legal aid) is not available. Your case will be handled throughout by an experienced solicitor. To arrange an initial consultation, either telephone us on 01332 293 293 or contact us online.

Would you like to speak to someone?

We provide an initial 30 minute consultation free of charge. Please complete the form below and we will be intouch.

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