The s.25 factors in practice: how courts really divide assets on divorce
A practical look at how the statutory checklist is applied — and why the distinction between needs and sharing continues to shape outcomes in the family courts.
Seema Kansal is a family law barrister at FOURTEEN Chambers in Gray's Inn, London. Instructed directly by individuals and by solicitors, she advises and appears in financial remedy, children, injunction and cross-border family proceedings across London and the South East.
Called to the Bar of England & Wales in 2007.
17+ years of advocacy experience.
Recommended in the Legal 500 for family and matrimonial work, with a practice built on meticulous preparation and persuasive advocacy.
Instructed on a Public Access basis without a solicitor, or alongside your legal team — whichever produces the strongest result.
Seema Kansal was called to the Bar of England and Wales in 2007 and practises exclusively in family law from FOURTEEN Chambers at 14 Gray's Inn Square, London. Her work spans the full breadth of matrimonial and children law — from first appointment to final hearing, and from round-table negotiation to contested advocacy.
She is accredited under the Bar Council's Public Access scheme, which means members of the public can instruct her directly, without a solicitor acting as an intermediary. Clients value a straightforward assessment of prospects, clear advice on evidence, and representation that is both measured and forceful where the situation demands it.
Every matter is different. Select an area below to see how Seema can help — or call +44 7851 280191 for an initial discussion about your case.
Full advice and advocacy on the division of assets, pensions, property and maintenance following divorce.
Representation through the financial remedy procedure — from Form A to first appointment, FDR and final hearing.
Focused, without-prejudice advocacy at the FDR appointment, with a realistic view of likely outcomes.
Complex asset structures — businesses, trusts, portfolios, offshore holdings and international property.
Child arrangements orders, prohibited steps and specific issue orders — always with the child's welfare first.
Sensitive cases where a child's relationship with a parent has been undermined, including enforcement applications.
Advice and representation for grandparents seeking contact, including permission applications to the court.
Representation for parents, family members and children in public law proceedings brought by a local authority.
Confidential, urgent support for those experiencing domestic abuse — including protective orders and court representation.
Urgent applications without notice and on notice, including representation at contested injunction hearings.
Drafting advice and independent legal advice on agreements designed to protect assets before or during marriage.
Trusts of Land and Appointment of Trustees Act claims — beneficial interests, declarations of trust and orders for sale.
Practical advice for unmarried couples separating — property, finances and arrangements for children.
Cross-border divorce, jurisdiction disputes, relocation and the recognition of foreign judgments.
Urgent applications under the Hague Convention and inherent jurisdiction in cases of wrongful removal or retention.
Instruct a barrister directly — transparent fees, no solicitor required, and continuity of representation.
Under the Bar Council's Public Access scheme, members of the public and businesses can instruct a barrister without a solicitor. It can reduce cost, shorten the chain of communication and give you direct access to the advocate who will present your case.
Written quotes for each stage of your matter, so you know exactly what to budget for.
Barristers are trained advocates — the person advising you is the person on their feet in court.
Full representation, or help with a single hearing, document or piece of written advice.
A short, no-obligation conversation to understand your situation and confirm whether Public Access is appropriate for your case.
Your papers are reviewed in detail. You receive clear, written advice on the merits, evidence needed and realistic outcomes.
Where possible, disputes are resolved through negotiation, round-table meetings or mediation — with robust preparation behind it.
If proceedings are necessary, Seema represents you at hearings across London and the South East — from first appointment to final hearing.
Every instruction begins with a clear, written quote. Fees are typically charged on a fixed-fee basis for defined pieces of work, or on an hourly basis for longer-running litigation.
Fees shown are indicative and exclude VAT where applicable. Court fees, expert fees and travel expenses are quoted separately. Legal aid may be available in some children and domestic abuse cases — Seema can advise on eligibility and alternative funding options.
“Seema was calm, precise and utterly prepared. She explained every step in plain English and her advocacy at the final hearing made the difference. I always felt I was in safe hands.”
“From our first conference, Seema understood the urgency. The non-molestation order was obtained quickly and she handled the whole process with real sensitivity and professionalism.”
“We instructed Seema on a complex children matter with international elements. Her knowledge of the law was outstanding, and her advice was always realistic rather than simply agreeable.”
A practical look at how the statutory checklist is applied — and why the distinction between needs and sharing continues to shape outcomes in the family courts.
Changing circumstances are common. Understanding the threshold for variation — and the evidence that carries weight — is essential before making an application.
Since Radmacher v Granatino the position has evolved considerably. We look at the factors that make an agreement persuasive — and the mistakes that undermine it.
If your question isn't covered here, please call +44 7851 280191 or send a message using the contact form. Enquiries are handled confidentially.
A short initial conversation is often the quickest way to understand your options and whether you need full representation.
Get in touchConfidential, no-obligation enquiries are welcome. Whether you need urgent advice or are planning ahead, the first step is a conversation.
14 Gray's Inn Square
London WC1R 5JP
Monday – Friday, 9:00 – 18:00
Urgent out-of-hours enquiries considered
Regulated by the Bar Standards Board
Public Access accredited
Seema Kansal is a barrister regulated by the Bar Standards Board. This website provides general information only and does not constitute legal advice.
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