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The breakdown of any relationship resulting in divorce or separation is a profoundly difficult time. Trying to assess its impact on your children, home, pension and finances can leave you confused, distressed and anxious about what the future holds.
We know that there are no ‘winners’ in this situation. Each family is unique and so there is no ‘one size fits all’ solution. We understand that you need clear advice about how to resolve the issues you face.
Our highly skilled and experienced team across our Newcastle and South Shields offices will listen to your concerns and talk you through the various options. This includes advice about the different ways of resolving the problems you are dealing with, including family mediation and collaborative family law. In some cases, it may be necessary to go to court. This could be the most efficient and cost-effective way to progress your case. Our award-winning team of expert family lawyers will advise and represent you so that you can get the best possible outcome for you and your family.
We know that it is normal for separating couples to experience many stressful emotions and we can also advise you about non-legal support services that you may find helpful at this difficult time.
For more information about divorce and separation please contact our experienced team family law team who are members of Resolution.
Frequently asked questions
How do I start a divorce?
To commence a divorce application, you must have been married for 1 year. The divorce application process has moved online and applicants can use the online service themselves or instruct a solicitor to act on their behalf in the application. Our team can advise you on the divorce application process and act on your behalf.
Do I need a divorce?
Whilst you don’t have to divorce if you are separated, it can be the only way to secure a financial settlement. When you commence divorce proceedings, you also open up the financial claims upon divorce against your spouse. Any agreement you reach with your partner about finances should be recorded in a legally binding Consent Order and, where it’s fair, it can provide for a “clean break” between you. If you do not start the divorce process, you cannot obtain a final Court Order. You can speak to our team of family law experts who can talk you through the process and options available to you, including discussing making a Will pending your divorce.
How long does a divorce take?
Divorce proceedings can take in the region of 6 months from beginning to end, provided your spouse co-operates and there are no backlogs with the Court processing applications. This timeframe may not however, take into account the work needed to negotiate a financial settlement, which it is advisable to do before terminating your marriage. Otherwise you may have to deal with this in years to come if your ex-spouse makes a financial claim.
How much does a divorce cost?
The Court fee to issue your divorce petition is currently £593.00 (February 2022). Depending upon your financial circumstances, you may be able to request a partial or full refund from the Court for this fee. If you require a solicitor to assist you with the proceedings, they can discuss with you the likely fees for their involvement.
