Divorce Lawyers Glasgow, Scotland

Divorce can be one of the most challenging experiences in life, bringing emotional, financial, and legal complexities. At Livingstone Brown, our experienced divorce lawyers in Glasgow are here to provide expert legal advice and compassionate support during this difficult time. Whether your case involves financial disputes, child custody arrangements, or complex property matters, we are committed to helping you achieve the best possible outcome. Contact us today through our online enquiry form or call us directly to discuss your case confidentially.

If you are going through the breakdown of a relationship, it's important that you gain legal advice as soon as possible. See also our guide to how our family lawyers help clients with high-value divorce in Scotland here. Family Law Team of the Year at the Scottish Legal Awards, our dedicated team of experienced, award-winning family lawyers led by Julia Donnelly & Nicola Watson can provide excellent legal advice to assist and provide support to our clients at such times. Our Family Law Partner Julia Donnelly is also accredited as a family mediator by the Law Society of Scotland.

Call us on 0141 429 8166 or complete our online contact form. 

Divorce in Scotland: The Legal Framework

In Scotland, divorce is granted when a marriage has broken down irretrievably, and there is no prospect of reconciliation. The law recognises four grounds for divorce:

1. Adultery: Defined as voluntary sexual intercourse between a married person and someone of the opposite sex who is not their spouse.
2. Unreasonable Behaviour: This could include physical violence, emotional abuse, financial irresponsibility, or other behaviours that make it unreasonable for one spouse to continue the marriage.
3. One Year Separation with Consent: If both parties agree to the divorce and have lived apart for at least one year.
4. Two Years Separation without Consent: If the parties have been separated for two years or more, consent from the other spouse is not required.

The court must also be satisfied that appropriate arrangements have been made for any children under 16 and that financial matters have been resolved before granting a divorce.

Types of Divorce Procedures

Simplified Divorce

The simplified divorce process is available for cases where:

• There are no children under 16.
• There are no financial claims or disputes.
• The grounds for divorce are based on one or two years of separation.

This process is quicker and less costly but only applies in straightforward cases.

Ordinary Cause Divorce

For more complex cases involving children, financial disputes, or allegations of adultery or unreasonable behaviour, the ordinary cause procedure is required. This involves raising a court action and may require court hearings if agreements cannot be reached. At Livingstone Brown, we guide our clients through both processes with clarity and efficiency, ensuring that their rights are protected every step of the way.

Financial Settlements in Divorce

Dividing finances during a divorce can be one of the most contentious aspects of the process. Scottish law aims to achieve fairness by considering several factors:

• The value of matrimonial property acquired during the marriage.
• Contributions made by each party, both financial and non-financial (e.g., caring for children).
• Economic disadvantage suffered by either party as a result of the marriage.

Financial claims can include:

• Capital Claims: Division of assets such as property or savings.
• Pension Sharing Orders: Dividing pension entitlements accrued during the marriage.
• Aliment: Financial support for a spouse after separation.

Our team has extensive experience handling high-value divorces and complex financial disputes. We work tirelessly to secure fair settlements for our clients.

Child Custody and Parental Rights

When children are involved in a divorce, their welfare is always the court’s primary concern. Key issues include:

• Residence Orders: Determining where the child will live.
  
• Contact Orders: Arrangements for spending time with the non-resident parent.
  
• Parental Rights and Responsibilities: Ensuring both parents remain involved in key decisions about their child’s upbringing.

Why Choose Livingstone Brown?

Livingstone Brown has built an outstanding reputation as one of Glasgow’s leading family law firms. Our award-winning team offers:

• Decades of experience in all aspects of divorce law.
• A client-focused approach that prioritises your needs and goals.
• Transparent fee structures with legal aid options where available.
• Expertise in high-value divorces and complex cases involving children or international elements.

We understand how overwhelming divorce can be and are here to provide clear advice and unwavering support throughout the process.

Getting Divorced in Scotland Frequently Asked Questions