Understanding civil partnerships: Your comprehensive guide
What is a civil partnership? A civil partnership is a way for couples, whether heterosexual or same sex, to formalise
I am a Family Law solicitor with over 28 years of experience to draw on, to help you resolve any issues relating to your relationship. This can be in the context of a marriage, civil partnership or as cohabitees. I have a particular specialism in the settlement of complex financial issues involving businesses, farms, or trust structures (both nationally and internationally), although I also deal with Prenuptial Agreements, Co-habitation disputes, and proceedings concerning children.
I am a Partner and Head of the Family department in Chelmsford. My team and I can address all aspects of Family Law and cater to every potential issue, ensuring we deliver the best results for you. Due to the range of legal services offered within Tees, we can draw on any necessary resources (whether related to trusts/estate management, employment, business, or agriculture) to ensure appropriate advice is provided to complement our Family service.
I am an accredited specialist in Family law by Resolution (the National Family Law group) and work within their Code of Practice to promote a pragmatic and amicable approach to the settlement of problems.
The Family Department also offers a range of alternative dispute resolution options, including mediation, collaborative law and arbitration, to help you approach your case’s outcome in the most appropriate fashion.
I would recommend Joshua Coombe, Lisa Honey and Catriona Rafferty. Joshua Coombe has considerable experience and is regarded as a formidable local solicitor.
My team and I are ranked in the top tier of the Legal 500 2026 top tier for the Essex region.
I am a committee member of the Avenue Contact Centre in Westcliff on Sea, Essex, which facilitates contact for children in a safe environment.
I attend the Chelmsford BID discovery group meetings to support the city’s retail and business growth.
I have written several articles on Family Law. I also regularly provide updates on interesting family law issues on LinkedIn.
“Joshua Coombe is listed as a Leading Lawyer by Wiselaw”
Testimonials:
“Joshua Coombe is thorough, hard working and a master tactician. He is deservedly the head of the department. He deals effortlessly with the most complex of family law disputes. He strives to find solutions in a very pragmatic way which supports the client’s needs and wishes.” Legal 500 UK, 2025, South East – Private client – Family: Essex
“Head of family, Joshua Coombe, is an excellent lawyer. He understands his clients’ and their needs and represents them in an effective and pragmatic way. He is always well prepared, robust in presenting the argument on behalf of his client but also sees the bigger picture, and is able to look at effective compromise.” Legal 500 UK, 2025, South East – Private client – Family: Essex
“I’ve worked with Joshua in the past, and he consistently demonstrated genuine kindness, patience, and professionalism, even during stressful and emotional times. He truly cares about people, explains things clearly, and makes you feel supported and respected — I’d highly recommend him to anyone seeking a solicitor they can trust.” Valeria Lacerda
“I can’t thank Joshua and the team enough for all of their support and advice over a two and a half year period. They responded to all matters quickly and efficiently, providing accurate legal advice at all times. Highly recommended and assisted me no end.” Daniel Maxwell
“Fantastic service from Joshua and Molly from start to finish. They dealt with my case over a number of years but were faultless in every instance. Can’t recommend them highly enough. Thank you!” Nigel Gray
What is a civil partnership? A civil partnership is a way for couples, whether heterosexual or same sex, to formalise
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