Divorce can be incredibly complex and emotional for many. Perhaps you have a support network of loved ones around you, and you may not feel as though you need a solicitor. However, it’s advised you should at least get some form of legal advice to help you throughout the divorce proceedings.
In this article, we’ll be discussing the various routes to divorce and why it’s a good idea to hire a family lawyer to help guide you through the process.
Deciding to file for divorce
Making the decision to file for divorce is never easy. The last thing you think about when entering a marriage is how and when your relationship may break down. However, it could be the right time to move on and start a new chapter, and divorce is there to legally bring your marriage to an end.
Four key stages make up the divorce process, which include:
- Completing a divorce application, either as a sole or joint applicant
- Submitting the application to a divorce centre via post or online, alongside a court fee
- Applying for a conditional order – this occurs when the application has been acknowledge by your partner and follows a 20-week cooling-off period
- Applying for a final order – six weeks after you have received the conditional order
To be eligible for divorce, you need to have been married to your partner for 12 months or longer.
The routes to divorce
There are several different routes couples may choose to take when filing for divorce. Deciding on a path that best suits your circumstances can be tricky, so we’ve outlined the two main options below:
- Online divorce: This service works the same as any normal paper divorce. The process begins with an online application and allows you the opportunity to provide key details before starting proceedings, potentially helping you save on legal fees.
- DIY divorce: The cost of divorce can come as a surprise to some. Research shows that the average cost of a divorce in the UK stands at £14,561. A DIY divorce is a low-cost option in which you and your partner receive little to no help from a solicitor. If you’ve both agreed to end your relationship and the splitting of finances is simple, a DIY divorce could work for you.
Why it’s a good idea to hire a family solicitor
There are so many benefits to using a family law solicitor during divorce. They can help guide you through the entire process and make the experience feel a little less stressful.
Their knowledge and expertise will be incredibly valuable and can help you save a lot of time and effort navigating the divorce papers and court documents. Family lawyers have dealt with hundreds of cases like yours, so will be well-equipped to handle your situation with professionalism and care.
If elements of your divorce include tricky financial matters, a family solicitor can help you and your partner reach an agreement. It’s important to have someone who can mediate when emotions are high and arrange a financial settlement between the two of you. In addition, they can support making arrangements for any children involved, as well as the division of matrimonial assets.
While you may feel comfortable dealing with divorce yourself, it’s important to be aware that help is always available to you. If you find yourself struggling with the proceedings and are feeling overwhelmed, family lawyers can offer a helping hand when you need it most.
