Whether you are contemplating leaving your partner or have been separated for some time and wish to formalise your situation with a divorce, it’s essential to understand a few key points before starting the process. Divorce can be a challenging journey but being informed and prepared can significantly reduce stress. Here are five important considerations to keep in mind:
- Locate Your Marriage Certificate To initiate a divorce, you will need your marriage certificate. Often, important documents are tucked away in secure locations, but they can sometimes be hard to find when needed. If you’ve misplaced your marriage certificate, you can apply for a replacement from the General Register Office (GRO) via the gov.uk website.
- Simpler Divorce Rules Since April 2022, the Divorce, Dissolution and Separation Act 2020 has altered the divorce landscape by simplifying the process and eliminating the need to assign blame. Nowadays, a brief statement saying that the marriage has irretrievably broken down suffices for a divorce application. Couples can even file jointly, which can lead to a more amicable process—especially beneficial for those with children or those wishing to maintain a civil relationship. Keep in mind these changes as they might streamline your own proceedings.
- Organise Your Finances A clear understanding of your financial situation is crucial as you navigate divorce. Collect documentation related to your pensions, investments, property values, mortgage details, credit card debts, loans, and bank statements. Keep this information organised in a secure location and create copies for your personal records to ensure you have all necessary figures for financial disclosure.
- Consider Children’s Living Arrangements If you have children, especially younger ones, it’s vital to thoughtfully consider the impact of divorce on their lives. Plan how to protect them from conflicts and ensure they receive the emotional support they need. Together with your ex-partner, decide on the best time and manner to communicate the separation to your children. Having a clear plan for parenting arrangements is advisable—resources like the Our Family Wizard co-parenting app can provide helpful guidance as you navigate this process.
- Consult a Specialist Divorce Lawyer Enlisting a specialised divorce lawyer can greatly alleviate stress and help you navigate your separation effectively. During your initial consultation with a solicitor from Lamb Brooks, you will explore your options, clarify your legal standing, and discuss potential timelines and costs. This meeting is an opportunity to ask questions, express your concerns, and receive personalised legal advice to help you make informed decisions about the next steps.
Get In Touch
For more information about beginning the divorce process or to connect with a knowledgeable divorce lawyer today, please call 01256 844888 or email enquiries@lambbrooks.com. You can also engage with our online chat assistant (a real person) who can gather initial information and coordinate a convenient call back.
Our Family Law Team is dedicated to providing professional guidance and support for a variety of family and divorce matters, drawing from extensive experience to help you find a peaceful path forward after separation.