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The Family Law Company Divorce and Separation solicitors, Hartnell Chanot & Partners, are a dedicated team of solicitors that only handle family law, making us the largest family law and divorce solicitor in Exeter, Devon and the South West. We have expertise in all aspects of divorce and separation including finances, divorce settlements and separation agreements. We focus on the interests of any children in divorce including child custody, child maintenance and care proceedings; and we are dedicated to protecting and supporting victims of domestic violence.
Served areas
  • Exeter, Honiton & Tiverton
Services
The Family Law Company helps you through the process of divorce or separation with understanding, sympathy and a genuine desire for the right outcome for you and your family.

As the South West’s leading family law experts, we have exactly the right experience and knowledge to guide you through and help you take control from your very first contact with us.

Our experienced and sympathetic divorce lawyers will make sure that you fully understand your divorce options and help you find the right way forward for you and your family. We believe in reaching an agreement outside of the court as far as possible, saving time and money and helping avoid unnecessary animosity with your former partner.

However complicated your individual situation, our expertise in family law will enable us to achieve the right result for you and your family, including arrangements for children. We will ensure you obtain the best possible financial settlement for your individual situation.
The Family Law Company has a dedicated team of solicitors providing specialist advice and support for unmarried couples going through a separation.

Unmarried couples do not enjoy the same rights as married couples on separation, but they are able to make claims in relation to property whether jointly owned or owned by one party. Claims can also be made for financial provision for the children of unmarried couples.

It is important that you choose a solicitor who will use the right approach to achieve the best outcome for you and your family. The Family Law Company’s primary focus is to work co-operatively with you and your former partner where possible to find a solution.
The Family Law Company provides legal advice to victims of domestic abuse to help them find the right method of protection for themselves and their children whilst providing the guidance to move forward following the breakdown of a relationship.

The term ‘domestic abuse’ includes emotional, psychological, physical, financial and sexual abuse of an intimate partner, child, former partner, family member or associated person.

We believe that domestic abuse ‒ in whatever form ‒ should never be tolerated. We have many years of experience helping victims to change their circumstances, providing them and their families with a safer future.

Legal Aid is available to victims of domestic abuse. This enables us to advise you on action that can be taken ‒ including emergency applications ‒ to ensure you get the appropriate level of advice and protection, based on your individual circumstances.
Reviews (29)
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Shevaun Blake
Jun 15, 2022
Gemma and her team supported me again through a very difficult time. They gave me reassurance, support and understanding of what was happening. I felt very listened too and would not hesitate to contact again if I needed too (hopefully not - in a good way!) I've heard of others struggling with their solicitors and I've never had that trouble which was a huge relief as it's a horrendous time anyway without added pressure. I would recommend Gemma and her team every time!
Ben Southgate
Apr 06, 2022
I had the most random, cliche case all over the period of covid but Hannah was amazing and helpful sorting everything out. I have my daughter back and security to move on with my life.
Melanie Waterworth
Feb 05, 2022
Rachel was everything I could have wanted and needed from a solicitor through this very difficult time, a solicitor who I really felt understood the case and the emotional attachment to and turmoil that I was personally going through. Myself and family trusted her throughout the whole process, feeling comfortable being guided by her professional opinion and honest judgement throughout, ultimately leading to a result I could be happy with.

With Rachel, you feel like she is working tirelessly to help you achieve the result you and she want. Her efficiency and speed at replying meant I was never left nervously waiting for a response during particularly difficult periods of the process. Her paralegal, Emma Hawkins, was also consistently there to provide support and advice and was an integral part of the team. Rachel's guidance in finding the right barrister for court also proved instrumental in helping us reach the final financial settlement.
Wandering Wakeful
Nov 05, 2021
Not using these myself but on the receiving end of the lies from this firm. As it's a family law solicitor, I expect them to have the safety of the children a priority. This is not the case. They with hold court ordered evidence, denying they have received it when said evidence has been confirmed as being delivered I'm may 2021. Does not checks on what they say and spout it like it's set in stone. You argue your case and your threatening and abusive. Not once has this firm acted in my kids best interests.
Hannah Smith
Jun 27, 2021
"Rip your family apart Racheal"- Racheal almost successfully managed to break my wonderful family apart- trying her very best to force my husband into a divorce, so as to benefit her personal funds. Whilst solicitors used by myself recommended couple's councelling to try resolve small marital issues. She shows absolute no care for for the family structure, and refers to marriage as a "jail sentence"- how appalling!
Ross Philip
Jun 15, 2021
Rachel is a monster. She was assigned to my case following some family maters. She placed a lot of pressure on me to do the opposite of what I wanted. Throughout the process she was rude, unprofessional and ruthless. I would highly recommend you stay away from the family law company Exeter as if Rachel is a reflection of their ethics then they clearly are money motivated and will cross all ethical boundaries to maximise profits. Shameful and sad.
Andrew Soanes
Jun 06, 2021
My matter was dealt with professionally and delivered the desired outcome, thank you Fiona @ Family Law, Exeter office
Jenny Carr
May 18, 2021
I have had Dominika sorting out my divorce she has been amazing and so very helpful she has been fantastic thank you so much 10 stars from me
Thomas White
May 06, 2021
I would recommend the Family law company to anyone for so many reasons. I was fortunate to have Rachel Buckley helping me who was nothing short of a god send! Rachel made me feel at ease and comfortable in what can only be described as the worst period of time in my life, I've never had to deal with anything like it before and had difficulty understanding what was happening on so many levels! Rachel made everything seem so much easier and talked me through things in a way I could understand and make sense of.

I honestly can't thank Rachel and her team enough for all of there hard work, everyone was so good to me and very understanding towards me, such a professional company but with the personal touch which is needed in such situations. Thank you again to everyone for all of your help Tom
Val Doyle
Apr 16, 2021
Excellent personal service with dealing with my divorce. Extremely fast result, thank you.
Red Rebel
Apr 04, 2021
A very poor quality experience I have had with this solicitor. KAY-LEIGHANN BOWRING a paralegal there, lacks customer contact and customer care skills. I definitely would never recommend them to a friend or family member, or any member of the general public. Save your money, and look for a better quality, professional good solicitor. There are a few about, but I have to say, that they are rare to find. Civil litigation is a dirty corrupt business in general from my experiences, and in my opinion anyway.
Abi Rose
Mar 31, 2021
The Family Law company supported me through financial negotiations (David) and child contact disputes (Norman). The financial aspect was resolved relatively quickly and without court intervention and David's help was superb. The child contact aspect continued for 2+ years, including court intervention. I learnt a lot from Norman which I carry in to many aspects of my life.

He came in to my life during a traumatic period, helped me through it, kept me measured and taught me a lot. I feel very blessed/lucky to have had Norman's support, he is superb at his job, his understanding, communication and presenting skills never ceased to amaze me. I've seen communication from other Solicitors received by friends in disputes and quite often it can appear threatening and confrontational.

The Family Law Company helped me achieve a good outcome, without such hostility. The court process is traumatic at times, but The Family Law Company ensure you go through it with support and dignity.
Gary Langdon
Mar 26, 2021
Called this company around 6 weeks ago to get some advice following a marriage breakdown, they took my details and said that someone would call me back but no one ever did! I followed up my call again today to be transferred to a colleague who asked for my ex wife's name which I provided to then be told that they were unable to deal with me but couldn't answer why.

I presume that my ex wife is dealing with this company which is why they are unable to speak with me (conflict of interest). I suggested that if this was the case then they could have at least been courteous and emailed me shortly after my first call to say they were unable to deal with my enquiry.
Jayne Greenslade
Dec 05, 2020
I am writing this having finally reached Decree Absolute and the traumatic journey of resovling a financial agreement has been successfully achieved. How do I feel? Relieved, elated, peace of mind and now looking forward to the future even in these uncertain COVID 19 times! This has all been acheived by the professionalism and compassion by having Norman Hartnell and his team guiding me through the highly emotional process and words cannot express my thanks and gratitude.
Adrian T.
Dec 04, 2020
Hannah and dominika are dealing with my divorce case. Excellent service so far and I'm always kept informed of the process and next stages. Nothing is ever a trouble when you need them. Would recommend the family law in exeter
Jenna Wellman
Nov 29, 2020
The Family Law Company have not only been fantastic representation in court, but on a personal level - they have gone above and beyond. My children and I suffered domestic abuse, and with no support and reassurance from other professionals involved, it was only my solicitor, Hannah Porter that had any understanding of what we were going through as a family.

She always picked the phone up to me and would reassure and guide me - even if she was busy with other cases. A fantastic company to have beside you, in probably the worst time of your life.
Richard Arnold
Aug 15, 2020
Norman Hartnell's experience, professionalism, good humour and limitless optimism helped me through a very difficult time. He was always quick to respond with considered rational views and direction which were clear and calming. I would thoroughly recommend Norman and The Family Law Company to anyone needing guidance through a divorce, one of the most challenging aspects of life.
Louise Webb
Aug 08, 2020
I found myself in the unenviable position of needing to support my brother who lives with mental health issues and currently teaching in Thailand to deal with his avoidance and distress in a particularly complicated divorce here in the UK involving traumatic deceit and acrimony from the other side. From the onset of my dropping in to The Family Law Company on the off chance that I might seek advice and potential representation for my brother I was greeted by Donna Hart who listened perceptively and instantly understood our difficult position.

From there on, to the completion of a very long and extremely challenging journey resulting in positive outcomes way beyond those we ever dared to hope for, Donna and her team have supported my brother and I with impeccable professionalism, warmth, empathy and lots of patience (dealing with a traumatised person in a different time zone isn't easy!).

Our experience of Donna's ability to be clear, concise, accurate and compassionately friendly with us throughout whilst maintaining scrupulous professional integrity coupled with her evident high quality expertise, tenacity and robustness has not only resulted in best outcomes both legally and financially for us, but has also supported my brother to be vindicated, and without doubt, to have regained his wish and hopes for a future again.

THANK YOU Donna! You will always hold a very dear place in our hearts, and I STRONGLY recommend You and your FLC colleagues to all.
Dani Barraclough
Jul 25, 2020
I moved to The Family Law Company after my previous solicitors provided very poor advice. I am so delighted that I took the plunge and made the move. Rachel Buckley and her paralegal Emma are an absolute pleasure to work with. They have managed to put my mind at ease, give me confidence to pursue my claim, have been emphatic and understanding of my personal situation and supportive throughout. They work with the upmost of integrity, responding swiftly, courteously and with professionalism. I couldn't recommend enough.
Clare Baker
Jun 20, 2020
The Family Law Company has a very refreshing approach to family law. Not only do they act with absolute integrity, honesty and professionalism but they have a real and genuine interest in delivering the best outcome. And the best outcome for the clients and their families. They are not motivated by long drawn out disputes which increase costs and stress.

They will carry out instructions and put your case as robustly as needed but to improve the outcome for the clients. They are also committed to the community in which they work and live. And the team and individuals make a difference fundraising and volunteering in many ways. The care, compassion and warmth of this firm and all their staff is second to none.

And I can’t recommend Donna who advised me and guided me though a very difficult period. Thanks to her my divorce not only went through with our disputes and prolonged battles but as I result the “family” is now happy and my ex husband and I can communicate again with care for each other and in the interest of our children without bitterness. That to me is priceless .
Pippa Bateman
Jun 17, 2020
I highly recommend The Family Law Company, Donna and her team provided an outstanding service to me throughout the settlement of my divorce and financial matters. Donna was particularly efficient with her timing which prevented incurring unnecessary costs. She also offered reassuring communications when we were waiting a while on responses from the court or the other solicitors.

I had total confidence in Donna's professional knowledge and couldn't be more grateful I found her when I was in such challenging circumstances. Donna's explanation of the process was very clear and I'm thrilled with the positive outcome we achieved.
Tracey Duke
Jun 06, 2020
The Family Law team in Exeter are an outstanding choice; never failing to deliver with professionalism, empathy and in-depth knowledge. My personal experience has shown them to consistently go over and beyond expectation. I have recommended them to numerous personal connections, secure in the knowledge that they will be well looked after. I wouldn't hesitate to continue recommending them.
Pippa Bateman
Feb 24, 2020
I highly recommend The Family Law Company, Donna and her team provided an outstanding service to me throughout the settlement of my divorce and financial matters. Donna was particularly efficient with her timing which prevented incurring unnecessary costs. She also offered reassuring communications when we were waiting a while on responses from the court or the other solicitors.

I had total confidence in Donna's professional knowledge and couldn't be more grateful I found her when I was in such challenging circumstances. Donna's explanation of the process was very clear and I'm thrilled with the positive outcome we achieved.
Mr. C.
Jan 12, 2020
Rachel Buckley and the Family Law Company team have provided me with the very best legal advice and also piece of mind. The situation I found myself in was complex and needed advice relating to UK law and foreign enforcement issues. This was dealt with professionally, promptly and in plain English. When I needed to make decisions Rachel's calm and assured approach was a huge asset.

The team around her provided me with support in the same way. I am sure that it was Rachel's qualities that led things to be resolved reasonably amicably and without the Courts. Dealing with any contentious Family Law matters will be emotional and stressful. Rachel is not only a highly competent, astute and practical Solicitor, but also an understanding and empathetic person, which was a huge help and relief.

When situations get to the point of involving legal process it is all to easy for the human element to be lost, but that is never the case with The Family Law Company. I would advise anyone in need of Family Law help to contact The Family Law Company. Individually I can't speak highly enough of Rachel Buckley, her assistance and counsel got me through a hugely difficult time and let me move forward with my life.
Clare Baker
Jan 08, 2020
The Family Law Company has a very refreshing approach to family law. Not only do they act with absolute integrity, honesty and professionalism but they have a real and genuine interest in delivering the best outcome. And the best outcome for the clients and their families. They are not motivated by long drawn out disputes which increase costs and stress.

They will carry out instructions and put your case as robustly as needed but to improve the outcome for the clients. They are also committed to the community in which they work and live. And the team and individuals make a difference fundraising and volunteering in many ways. The care, compassion and warmth of this firm and all their staff is second to none.

And I can't recommend Donna who advised me and guided me though a very difficult period. Thanks to her my divorce not only went through with our disputes and prolonged battles but as I result the "family" is now happy and my ex husband and I can communicate again with care for each other and in the interest of our children without bitterness. That to me is priceless. Thank you
Sue Cade
Nov 05, 2019
I had a meeting with Rachel Buckley to discuss my divorce. We talked about my circumstances, what I should expect, what the likely outcome would be and how I could keep the process amicable with my ex husband. Rachel's advice was thoroughly professional and helped me to continue with my divorce knowing how to reach a good conclusion, which I did. She was really easy to talk to and made me feel like I really mattered. Highly recommended.
Stuart England
I have dealt with the family law company on several occasions with both Rachel Buckley and Imran Khodabocus. The way they have dealt with all my cases, and all advice given, has been outstanding in every way possible. I would highly recommend them to anyone in need of a solicitor.
Tony Walker
I used Rachel and her team at Family Law to help and guide me through a time when things needed to be made clear and path forward put in place for both myself and my family to be made secure and able to move on with our lives. During those times I needed direction and to work towards an outcome that benefited both parties and I got that by engaging Family Law and I would recommend them to anyone that might need family law assistance.
Rich Davies
I was recommended to use Family Law Company, and specifically Donna Hart and I was exceptionally pleased that I did. Extremely responsive, efficient and knowledgeable. I was comfortable throughout that I was receiving high value advice and I was kept informed throughout. I would highly recommend.