International Women’s Day: Celebrating Women in Law in Northern Ireland

International Women’s Day offers an opportunity to reflect on the progress made by women across all professions and to recognise those who continue to shape the future. In the legal profession in Northern Ireland, women have made significant strides over the past decades, moving into leadership positions, shaping public policy, and championing justice across our courts and institutions.

At Michelle Crilly Family Law, we are proud to work within a profession where women are increasingly visible in positions of influence and authority. From the courtroom to the judiciary, women across Northern Ireland are helping to redefine what leadership in law looks like.

Below are just a few of the remarkable women who have played an important role in shaping the legal landscape.

Lady Chief Justice Dame Siobhan Keegan

Appointed as Attorney General for Northern Ireland in 2020, Siobhan Keegan became the first woman to hold the role since the office was re-established in 2010. As the chief legal adviser to the Northern Ireland Executive, her work influences significant constitutional and public law matters.

Her career has included senior leadership within the legal profession and extensive experience in public law. Her appointment marked an important milestone, demonstrating the growing presence of women in the most senior legal advisory roles in Northern Ireland.

Brigid Napier

Brigid Napier has built a respected career as a solicitor and leader within the profession. She previously served as President of the Law Society of Northern Ireland, representing solicitors across the jurisdiction and advocating for professional standards and legal reform.

Her work has contributed to strengthening the voice of solicitors within the legal system while encouraging greater diversity within the profession.

Michelle Crilly

Closer to home, Michelle Crilly continues to play an important role within the legal profession through her work in family law. Family law requires not only legal expertise but also empathy, understanding and the ability to guide clients through some of the most difficult periods of their lives.

Through her practice, Michelle works closely with families across Northern Ireland, providing clear legal advice and compassionate support on matters such as divorce, financial settlements, and arrangements for children.

The Changing Face of the Legal Profession

The legal profession in Northern Ireland has changed significantly over the past generation. Women now make up a substantial proportion of law graduates and practising solicitors, and increasingly hold senior positions across law firms, the Bar, the judiciary and public office.

While challenges remain, the progress achieved demonstrates the importance of visibility, mentorship and leadership in supporting the next generation of female lawyers.

Looking Forward

International Women’s Day is not only about celebrating achievements, but also about encouraging continued progress. The women highlighted above represent just a small number of the many talented female lawyers contributing to the justice system in Northern Ireland.

At Michelle Crilly Family Law, we recognise the importance of strong female voices within the profession and remain committed to supporting fairness, representation and opportunity within the legal community.

As more women enter and lead within the legal field, the future of the profession continues to grow stronger.

If you would like advice on divorce, child arrangements or any family law matter over the Christmas period, the team at Michelle Crilly Family Law is ready to support you with compassion, discretion and expertise.

At Michelle Crilly Family Law, we provide compassionate, expert guidance through all aspects of family law, including financial matters arising from separation and divorce. If you need advice about protecting your financial interests during separation, contact us today for a confidential consultation.

Home

A Practical Guide to Divorce in Northern Ireland

Ending a marriage is rarely just a legal decision-it often comes with emotional strain, financial concerns, and uncertainty about the future. One of the most common sources of stress is simply not knowing how the divorce process works.

In Northern Ireland, divorce follows a structured legal framework. While every family situation is different, understanding the key stages can remove much of the anxiety surrounding the procedure.

When Can You Apply for Divorce?

Before initiating divorce proceedings, the law requires that you demonstrate your marriage has irretrievably broken down. This is not about assigning blame – it is about establishing that the relationship cannot be repaired.

In Northern Ireland, this is typically shown through one of the following circumstances:

Separation for two years with consent

Separation for five years (consent not required)

Unreasonable behaviour

Adultery

Desertion

The appropriate ground will depend on your individual circumstances, living arrangements, and available evidence.

Starting the Legal Process

Divorce proceedings formally begin when one spouse submits a divorce petition to the court.

This document outlines:

• Details of the marriage

• The legal ground relied upon

• Basic information about children (if applicable)

Supporting documentation is required, most notably your original marriage certificate. Once the court processes the application, the petition is issued and must be formally served on the other spouse.

Serving the Papers & Response

The other spouse (known legally as the respondent) is given the opportunity to reply.

At this stage, they may:

Acknowledge the proceedings

• Indicate agreement

• Choose to contest the divorce

Most divorces proceed undefended, meaning there is no dispute over the divorce itself, even if financial or parenting matters remain unresolved.

The Decree Nisi Stage

A Decree Nisi is effectively the court’s confirmation that the legal requirements for divorce have been

met.

It does not end the marriage. Instead, it represents the court’s provisional approval of the divorce. In many cases, this stage proceeds without the need for a full court hearing.

Finalising the Divorce – Decree Absolute

After a mandatory waiting period (typically six weeks and one day), the petitioner may apply for the Decree Absolute.

This is the order that legally ends the marriage. Only at this point are you formally divorced.

Financial Matters & Divorce

One of the most misunderstood aspects of divorce is that financial arrangements are separate from the divorce itself.

Divorce does not automatically resolve:

Property ownership

Savings and pensions

Debts

Maintenance

If financial issues are not agreed voluntarily, either party may apply for financial relief through the court.

Importantly, many solicitors advise resolving financial matters before obtaining the Decree Absolute, as legal rights can be affected once the marriage is formally dissolved.

Arrangements for Children

Similarly, divorce proceedings do not automatically determine:

• Residence

• Contact

• Parental responsibilities where parents cannot agree, the court may intervene to make decisions based on the best interests of the child.

How Long Does Divorce Take?

There is no universal timeline.

An uncontested divorce with straightforward finances may conclude relatively quickly. Cases involving disputes – particularly around assets or children- naturally take longer.

Why Legal Advice Matters

Divorce is not simply paperwork – it involves long-term financial rights, parental responsibilities, and legal protections.

Professional legal guidance helps ensure:

• Correct grounds are relied upon

• Documents are properly prepared

• Financial rights are protected

• Avoidable delays are prevented

Moving Forward with Clarity

While divorce can feel overwhelming, understanding the structure of the process can make it far more manageable. With appropriate advice, many people find the legal journey far less intimidating than expected.

If you need guidance specific to your situation, Michelle Crilly Family Law can provide clear, practical advice tailored to your circumstances.

Month: March 2026