Goodsells Family Law Solicitors

Goodsells Family Law Solicitors A boutique Family Law practice in Clapham providing clear, compassionate advice on divorce, financial settlements, nuptial agreements and child law.

Donna Goodsell practises all aspects of Family Law, including the breakdown of civil partnerships, cohabitation disputes, divorce and financial settlements, separation, emergency freezing and domestic abuse injunctions, pre and post nuptial agreements, and all issues involving children. As every case is unique, Donna uses her expertise and experience to provide a bespoke service to each individual

client. Depending on the circumstances, her approach may involve careful negotiation with other solicitors, or firm litigation within the court process, as necessary to meet her clients’ needs. Donna represents clients from various backgrounds, including business owners, investment bankers, professionals and artisans. Donna specialises in complex financial disputes, often following divorce or the breakdown of a relationship, or trust disputes relating to the ownership of property. Donna is highly experienced in every aspect of ‘private law’ children matters, including prohibited steps orders, specific issues such as education, residential and contact disputes, and regularly, applications for permission to leave the jurisdiction (either for the applicant or respondent).

In 2005, a quiet but significant shift took place in Family Law. When the Adoption and Children Act 2002 came fully into...
26/02/2026

In 2005, a quiet but significant shift took place in Family Law. When the Adoption and Children Act 2002 came fully into force, same-sex couples in England and Wales were able to adopt jointly for the first time.

That change did more than update legislation. It strengthened legal protection for children, ensured both parents could share parental responsibility and recognised families on equal terms under the law.

Since then, thousands of children have been adopted by same-sex couples and diverse family structures are firmly recognised within the legal framework.

LGBT+ History Month is an opportunity to reflect not only on how far the law has come but on what those changes have meant in real lives and real families.


Every Family Law case brings its own mix of emotion, uncertainty and practical realities. Achieving a fair outcome means...
24/02/2026

Every Family Law case brings its own mix of emotion, uncertainty and practical realities. Achieving a fair outcome means listening carefully, applying the law thoughtfully and putting structure around difficult decisions so clients can move forward with confidence.

At Goodsells Family Law, Donna approaches each matter on its own terms, combining empathy with clear process and realistic advice. There is no one-size-fits-all solution, only what is reasonable and sustainable for the people involved.

If you are navigating separation or financial arrangements and want experienced, measured guidance, support is available.

Separation can feel overwhelming, particularly when finances and family arrangements need to be considered.Many people s...
19/02/2026

Separation can feel overwhelming, particularly when finances and family arrangements need to be considered.

Many people seek legal advice because they need help understanding their position and the options available to them. Finding the right support can make it easier to approach separation with clear steps and realistic expectations.

With over 25 years of experience in Family Law, Donna supports clients through separation and divorce with care, discretion, and a steady, considered approach.

Support is available when you’re ready to talk.

In celebration of LGBTQ+ History Month, we’re reflecting on the legal milestones that have shaped family life in the Uni...
17/02/2026

In celebration of LGBTQ+ History Month, we’re reflecting on the legal milestones that have shaped family life in the United Kingdom.

From the Civil Partnership Act 2004, which came into force in 2005, to the introduction of same-sex marriage in 2014, these changes marked significant progress in how relationships are recognised and protected under the law.

Between 2005 and 2013, over 64,000 civil partnerships were formed in England and Wales. In 2014 alone, 4,850 same-sex marriages took place following the change in legislation. Today, thousands of same-sex couples marry each year with the same legal framework as opposite-sex couples.

Equal recognition under the law strengthens financial protections, parental rights, inheritance rights and access to divorce and dissolution.

Understanding this history reminds us how far we’ve come and why clear, specialist legal advice continues to matter for modern families.

The lead-up to your wedding or civil partnership is an exciting time but it can also feel overwhelming. Thinking about a...
12/02/2026

The lead-up to your wedding or civil partnership is an exciting time but it can also feel overwhelming. Thinking about a pre-nuptial agreement can be challenging, particularly if you’re unfamiliar with the process.

Knowing when to engage a Family Law Solicitor can make a real difference. A helpful starting point is to work backwards from your planned wedding date. Pre-nuptial agreements should be signed at least 28 days before your union and allowing additional time helps to avoid unnecessary pressure.

Typically, this includes time for discussion, drafting and review, as well as an initial period for your solicitor to explain the process, and gather the necessary information. Ideally, this works out at around four months.

You can begin sooner if you wish, or adjust the timescales depending on your circumstances. The most important step is simply having the initial conversation when you feel ready. A pre-nup doesn’t need to be another source of stress during what should be a joyful time.

Separation or divorce often raises questions long before any decisions are made.If conversations are going in circles, f...
10/02/2026

Separation or divorce often raises questions long before any decisions are made.

If conversations are going in circles, financial positions feel uncertain, or you’re being asked to make decisions before you fully understand the implications, early legal advice can help you understand where you stand and what options are available to you.

Speaking to a Family Law solicitor does not commit you to taking action. In many cases, it is simply about understanding the legal position and considering next steps at your own pace.

Support is available when you’re ready.

A strong pre-nup isn’t about expecting a relationship to fail. It’s about taking a responsible, open approach to the fut...
06/02/2026

A strong pre-nup isn’t about expecting a relationship to fail. It’s about taking a responsible, open approach to the future so both partners feel secure.

Here are three elements that help an agreement carry weight:

1 - It’s signed well before the wedding or civil partnership (at least 28 days).
2 - Both partners have shared full financial information.
3 - Each person has received independent legal advice.

Handled properly, a pre-nup protects both partners and reduces future uncertainty. If you’re thinking about putting an agreement in place, Donna can guide you through the process.

A Prenuptial Agreement, or “pre-nup”, allows couples planning to marry to set out clearly what should happen if they sep...
04/02/2026

A Prenuptial Agreement, or “pre-nup”, allows couples planning to marry to set out clearly what should happen if they separate in the future, including how assets or financial arrangements would be handled.

Pre-nups can be particularly helpful where one partner owns property, has significant savings, or expects an inheritance. A similar agreement, known as a Postnuptial Agreement, can be made after marriage.

While nuptial agreements aren’t automatically legally binding in England and Wales, courts often consider them carefully if both parties entered freely, received independent legal advice, and understood the terms.

At Goodsells Family Law, we provide clear, independent advice to help couples discuss and prepare these agreements fairly and with confidence.

When relationships end, financial settlements can feel complex and uncertain.Understanding how assets are considered is ...
29/01/2026

When relationships end, financial settlements can feel complex and uncertain.

Understanding how assets are considered is an important part of the process. Property, savings, pensions, debts and business interests are all taken into account, along with your earning capacity.

Every situation is different. Context matters and outcomes depend on individual circumstances, full financial disclosure, and careful consideration at each stage.

With over 25 years of experience in Family Law, Donna supports clients through divorce and financial settlements with clarity, and discretion.

If you would like to understand your position, taking early advice can help you move forward with confidence.

Going through a divorce can feel overwhelming, especially when it comes to understanding what you’re entitled to. Many p...
27/01/2026

Going through a divorce can feel overwhelming, especially when it comes to understanding what you’re entitled to. Many people are surprised to learn what the law actually considers during a financial settlement.

Your rights aren’t based on who earned more, who behaved better, or who filed first. They’re based on practical needs, long-term stability and full financial disclosure from both partners.

A well-prepared settlement protects your future and gives you the security to move forward with confidence.

If you need clear, experienced guidance on your situation, Goodsells Family Law is here to help.

What happens after a divorce settlement is agreed?Reaching a financial settlement is an important milestone but it’s oft...
22/01/2026

What happens after a divorce settlement is agreed?

Reaching a financial settlement is an important milestone but it’s often not the end of the process. Implementing the court order may involve transferring assets, sharing pensions and updating wills.

Understanding what comes next will make this stage more manageable and help you move forward with confidence.

With over 25 years’ experience in Family Law, Donna supports clients through each stage with care and careful legal guidance, ensuring the right steps are taken at the right time.

If you’d like to understand what applies in your situation, support is available when you’re ready.

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16 Old Town
London
SW40JY

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Tuesday 8am - 6pm
Wednesday 8am - 6pm
Thursday 8am - 6pm
Friday 8am - 6pm

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