Question 1

Can I get divorced without a solicitor?

Accepted Answer

Yes, in England and Wales, you can get a divorce without a solicitor. The no-fault divorce process is designed so that people can apply online themselves, and many do. But getting a divorce online doesn't deal with the financial matters. Divorce can affect your property, savings, pensions, business interests, income, maintenance and inheritance. Until you have a court order dealing with the financial matters, it's possible that financial claims can be made in the future. Your assets need to be divided fairly, and what's fair depends on many factors that will be unique to your circumstances. It's important to understand, from the outset, what fairness might look like in your situation. A financial order should always be drafted by a solicitor. We understand that not everyone can afford to pay for a solicitor at every stage, and that some people prefer not to. But the process can feel daunting and overwhelming at times, and we're here to provide advice and support as and when you need it. For most people, this means speaking to a solicitor at a few key points through the divorce and financial separation process, and making sure the financial order is properly drafted at the end. That focused advice will cost a fraction of what getting it wrong could cost you further down the line.

Question 2

Can we use one solicitor, or do we have to have separate solicitors?

Accepted Answer

You can use one solicitor. We offer a service called Separating Together, which allows both of you to work with us jointly, with the benefit of shared legal advice and support, to reach an agreement about all the issues arising from your separation. That agreement is then recorded in the proper legal documents and approved by the court where necessary. Separating Together is a cost-effective, flexible and dignified way to approach your divorce or separation. It isn't right for every situation, but we can talk through your circumstances together and decide whether it's the right option for you and your family.

Question 3

Do I have to go to court to get divorced?

Accepted Answer

Getting legal advice doesn't have to mean expensive, litigious, drawn-out court proceedings. From experience, outcomes are better for everyone where court can be avoided, and there are many ways to reach a resolution that don't involve it; all of which are helped by understanding your legal position early. There are cases where court is the only or the best option, and the Family Court plays an important and necessary role in those situations. An experienced solicitor will be able to assess your case and advise you on the best course of action for you.

Question 4

How long does it take to get divorced?

Accepted Answer

A divorce takes a minimum of 26 weeks, because the law sets out a process that must be followed, including mandatory waiting periods. You can apply for a conditional order, the first stage, 20 weeks after the divorce application is issued by the court. Once the conditional order is granted, you then need to wait a further six weeks before you can apply for the final order. In practice, most divorces take between eight and twelve months, because it's important to deal with the financial matters before the divorce is finalised.

Question 5

Do I have to provide my former partner with all of my financial information?

Accepted Answer

If you're divorcing in England or Wales and there are financial matters to resolve, the general rule is yes. Both parties must provide full, frank and clear disclosure of their respective financial positions. This is a continuing obligation until matters are concluded by way of a court order; if your circumstances change before that point, you must inform your former partner and provide updated disclosure. Financial disclosure allows a proper assessment of assets, income and earning capacity, and underpins the court's duty to consider all the circumstances of the case and make an order that's fair to both parties. It's provided on the basis that it will be treated as confidential and not shared without agreement. If you have any concerns about providing disclosure, or if your former partner isn't being cooperative, we can guide you through the process and help resolve the situation.

Question 6

How much does a divorce cost?

Accepted Answer

Every case is different, so it's difficult to give you a figure without first understanding your circumstances. We offer an initial meeting with a solicitor at a fixed fee of £200 plus VAT (£240). At that meeting we'll discuss your case, give you initial advice and talk through the likely costs. We'll continue to discuss costs as your matter progresses, and we'll always be upfront and honest so that you're able to make informed decisions and plan ahead. Our aim is always to provide high-quality, good-value legal advice.

Question 7

Can you help if my case involves domestic abuse?

Accepted Answer

Yes. We have considerable experience in cases involving domestic abuse, including financial and economic abuse and coercive and controlling behaviour. We hold Resolution's Specialist Accreditation in this area, which is a recognition reserved for solicitors with genuine expertise in some of the most sensitive family work. We'll work with you sensitively and confidentially to resolve matters, while keeping your safety as the priority throughout.

Family Law

Family difficulties touch almost everyone at some point, and when they do, they can be among the hardest things we face.

How we can help with family law.

Divorce & Separation

Financial Matters

Arrangements for Children

Pre- & Post-Nuptial Agreements

Cohabitation

Domestic Abuse

Separating Together

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