Divorce and separation can be one of the most stressful situations for couples due to the emotional nature of the proceedings, however it is not always necessary to go to court. At Hay & Kilner, our divorce experts can guide you through one of the various alternative dispute resolution methods for a less confrontational and costly approach to divorce.
How we can help
Fiona Ryans is one of the few solicitors in the North East to be both a collaborative practitioner and to have undertaken Resolution Together training, allowing her to advise couples jointly in their separation and divorce proceedings.
One Solicitor, One Solution
Not all couples want to appoint separate solicitors when a relationship breaks down.
Here at Hay & Kilner we recognise every situation is unique and many couples want to resolve matters jointly at their own pace.
We are able to offer appropriate couples our One Solicitor, One Solution option to enable parties to work jointly with one solicitor to resolve matters arising from the breakdown of their relationship whether married or not.
This approach keeps costs down and helps resolve matters quickly and pragmatically.
One of the unique advantages of One Solicitor, One Solution is the ability to discuss matters outside the traditional court arena and tailor an outcome which is appropriate for your particular circumstances.
Your key contact
Kerry Kelso
Kerry is an expert in public and private children law matters and is head of the family team at our Wallsend Office.
Anna Curphey
Anna has a wealth of experience in family law including children law and domestic abuse.
Fiona Ryans
Fiona has worked in family law in Newcastle for her whole career building up a strong network with other professionals who regularly refer work to her. She is one of only a few solicitors in the area able to work with both parties together. She also supports clients under the collaborative model in addition to …
Louisa Bestford
Louisa moved to the North East to complete her legal qualifications and has developed her specialism in family law over the last 15 years at some of the region’s best-known firms.
Kayleigh Bell
Kayleigh advises and represents clients in all aspects of family law related matters arising from the breakdown of a marriage or relationship.
Robert Hackett
Robert specialises in cases involving children and domestic abuse.
Alice Holman
Alice is a 2024 graduate of Durham University Law School and has been a Paralegal in the Safeguarding Children Team since July 2024.
Georgia Cuthbert
Georgia is a Paralegal in the Divorce & Family team located in Wallsend.
Kerry Johnston
Kerry is one of the most thorough and able Paralegals in our region. Not only has she acquired a reputation as “a safe pair of hands”, but she is regularly praised by professionals and clients alike for her excellent people skills.
Phoebe Murphy
Phoebe has recently joined our Family team after previously working as a Business Consultant within the Software industry.
Expert commentary & updates
Mediation: A calm, supported path to resolving family matters
Louisa Bestford, from our Divorce & Family Team, explains how mediation offers a calm, supported way to resolve family disputes and avoid court with practical legal guidance.”
Why divorce enquiries rise in January and Hay & Kilner's amicable options for couples
Why do divorce enquiries rise in January? Fiona Ryans, from Hay & Kilner's Divorce & Family Team, explains the trend and how an amicable One Solicitor Solution can support couples.
How to prepare for a divorce
Louisa Bestford, from our Divorce & Family Team, explains how to prepare for divorce, covering finances, children and practical steps to protect your future.
Family at the heart of growing Hay & Kilner team
Operating from offices in Newcastle and Wallsend, Hay & Kilner’s Family Law Team offers comprehensive legal support across all aspects of family law, ensuring tailored support for every client.
Collaborative solutions: Avoiding court in family disputes
Fiona Ryans, from our Divorce & Family Team, explains how to avoid court in divorce using mediation and collaborative approaches for a more amicable separation.
The family home: Legal rights, ownership and what happens in divorce
What happens to the family home in divorce? Fiona Ryans, from our Divorce & Family Team, explains ownership, rights and financial settlement options.
Do we have to have separate solicitors for divorce?
The short answer is no! Fiona Ryans, from our Divorce & Family Team, explores ways to settle your divorce without going to court, including mediation and collaborative divorce.
You may also need advice on
Child Maintenance & Support
At Hay & Kilner, we understand that issues surrounding child maintenance and support can be emotionally challenging and legally complex, especially when it concerns children of a young age. Ensuring the physical, mental and financial wellbeing of your children is a top priority, whether you're going through a separation or need help enforcing or modifying existing child support agreements. Our specialist family law team is here to provide you with clear, compassionate, and effective legal advice to help to secure the best possible future for your children.
Divorce & Separation
Here at Hay & Kilner we understand that deciding to separate from your partner is one of the hardest decisions you can make. Our dedicated team of legal experts are here to make the process of separating from your partner or divorcing your spouse as stress and pain free as possible with personalised support and guidance.
Family Court
Navigating the family court system can be a daunting experience, especially when dealing with emotionally sensitive issues such as divorce, child arrangements, or financial disputes. At Hay & Kilner, our expert family law solicitors provide experienced and compassionate representation to guide you through every step of the process.
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