Divorce Solicitors

Do I need legal advice for a divorce?

You now have more choice than ever on how to carry out your divorce. Whilst the options now include cheap, quick online divorce services it's important for you to know what's not included in such basic packages. These services typically only include the costs of documentation. Little or no advice is given, leaving you to make significant, far-reaching decisions by yourself, with little or no legal knowledge.

So how do you benefit from getting specialist legal advice? Unravelling years of marriage is not simple – especially if there are children, property, joint assets or pensions involved. Even in an uncontested divorce – one which both parties agree to – negotiating a settlement, childcare arrangements or division of assets on your own is far from easy. If you get things wrong, you’ll only find out when it’s too late.

Our Family Law specialists have many years’ experience of managing even the most complicated divorces. They can help you anticipate what you need to plan for in the future and ensure that your settlement is a fair one that meets your future needs as closely as possible.

What happens if children are involved?

If your divorce involves children it can be distressing when deciding upon the arrangements. Disagreements can stem from all kinds of matters, but our divorce lawyers can assist you with any child disputes. We will try and work towards negotiations and solutions in the best interests of your child. In the event that a case is taken to court, we can also represent you should it be necessary.

What am I entitled to?

As everyone's case is unique, there are many factors for a Court to consider when it comes to who is entitled to what. This is based on things such as levels of income, the value of any assets you and your ex-spouse may own, any children involved and more. You should provide as much evidence as possible relating to whatever matters you see fit, for example you may provide financial documents, or any evidence of child arrangements.

Financial matters are usually sorted out while the divorce is progressing. It can be done via mediation or, like child arrangements, both parties can try to reach a negotiation alongside their respective solicitors. We would advise you to make a consent order once decisions have been reached, which lays out agreements in a document that is approved by the Court.  If it is not possible to come to an arrangement, the Court can then step in to make a final decision.

Isn't it more expensive to use a divorce solicitor?

Divorce advice comes at a cost in the short-term. However, it can save you a great deal of potential cost and hassle in the future. If agreements for things such as finances or child arrangements aren’t handled correctly, you could end up with a poor settlement or you could face further legal action from your ex-spouse.

The whole point of a divorce is that you’re able to move on from a difficult situation and plan for a better future, so it makes sense to do things the right way, first time.