Family Law
Divorce can be a traumatic, bewildering and expensive process. At Bonar Mackenzie, we have a dedicated family law team and can guide you towards the most appropriate and least stressful solution for you and your family.
Occasionally, in family cases, court action is inevitable and necessary. We are experienced in divorce litigation, in residence and contact disputes, in emergency protection for those who may have been the victims of domestic violence and in international child abduction cases. When litigation is the only solution, our team will pursue the most effective outcome for you.
However, we do aim to bridge the differences between separating couples by offering alternatives to litigation, including mediation and also agreements negotiated through the collaborative process. These alternatives focus on what separating couples continue to share, rather than what divides them, and are particularly effective where children are involved. Whatever solution you choose in pursuing a new path for yourself and your family, you can rely upon us to guide you towards the most appropriate outcome.
View our article on Family Law - Scotsman, 03/07. (PDF 113kb)
View our article on Cohabiting and the law. (PDF 480kb)
“We are pleased that the quality of service that we provide is recognised by our ranking by Chambers and Partners, with Sheila Barker now acknowledged as one of the leaders in the field of Family Law in Scotland.”
Sarah Lilley
I grew up in North East Scotland and obtained my law degree at the University of Aberdeen. Having known for a long time that I wished to pursue a career in family law, I moved to Edinburgh in June 2008 after securing a position as a solicitor within Bonar Mackenzie's specialised and well respected Family Law Team.
It is very rewarding to have the knowledge, and now the experience, to help clients find clarity and direction in what can be very difficult and confusing situations. I take great pride in seeing my clients grow in confidence during our time together. At Bonar Mackenzie I am encouraged to see every client as an individual and we all work hard towards achieving the best outcome for that client's particular needs.
Outside work I spend as much time as possible with family and friends. I go running regularly and enjoy playing the piano, bass guitar, double bass and saxophone.
