Family Law Solicitor Interview Questions UK: 8 Real Questions and What Interviewers Want

Most Family Law Solicitor interviews in the UK follow a pattern, and knowing it beats guessing. Below are eight questions from our bank of 16, each with a note on what the interviewer is really after.

Eight Family Law Solicitor interview questions, and what the interviewer is thinking

1. What factors does the court consider when dividing assets on divorce?

Why they ask: The central financial remedies question in family practice.

2. Explain the stages of financial remedy proceedings after divorce.

Why they ask: Procedure underpins everyday casework.

3. What are the types of order a court can make about children under the Children Act 1989?

Why they ask: Core private law children work.

4. A client tells you they suspect their spouse is hiding money offshore. What steps would you take?

Why they ask: Tests knowledge of disclosure duties and remedies.

5. What is a MIAM and when is it required?

Why they ask: A mandatory first step in family proceedings.

6. A client wants to relocate abroad with their child after separation. How do you advise?

Why they ask: Tests handling of a high-stakes children issue.

7. Tell me about a time you helped a client reach a settlement rather than going to a final hearing.

Why they ask: Resolution is the core family law approach.

8. Why do you want to be a family law solicitor?

Why they ask: Tests resilience and motivation for emotionally demanding work.

A sample answer to question 1

What factors does the court consider when dividing assets on divorce?

Under section 25 of the Matrimonial Causes Act 1973, the court's first consideration is the welfare of any minor child, then it must have regard to the factors listed. These include the parties' income, earning capacity and financial resources, their needs, obligations and responsibilities, the standard of living, age and length of the marriage, any disability, contributions to the family including looking after the home, conduct only if it is inequitable to ignore, and the value of any benefit lost through divorce, such as pension rights. Case law, particularly White v White, Miller v McFarlane and Charman, shapes the application, with the three principles of needs, sharing and compensation. Needs, particularly housing for the children, are usually the starting point, and an equal division is a yardstick where assets are matrimonial property. Non-matrimonial assets, such as inheritance or premarital wealth, may be treated differently. In advising a client, I would explain these principles, then give an estimated range based on the facts.

Common mistake to avoid: Promising a 50/50 split; treating conduct as routinely relevant

Want the rest?

Full model answers, key points and common mistakes for all 16 questions are on the Family Law Solicitor interview questions page. The first five are free, no sign-up needed.