When marriages break down, it can be difficult to face the truth. Even when the relationship has been especially trying, considering a divorce can be even harder. With issues like religious stigma, family disapproval, and many others to consider, sometimes it just feels easier to ignore the problem, but this never lasts long and can cause unnecessary resentment.
While getting a divorce is never easy, sometimes it’s the best option. It doesn’t have to be the messy battle that people think it is, especially if you have the right guidance. While everyone’s situation is different, it’s possible to get through divorce proceedings without shedding too many tears. Having a solid support system can help with that.
If you’re ready to take the final step to end your marriage, there are multiple factors to consider, and it pays to be as informed as possible. Whether your separation has been amicable or turbulent, there are some common questions that most people have regarding divorce proceedings. We’ve listed a few of them below to get you started:
Where Do I Start?
If your separation has been somewhat amicable, it’s advised that you try to come to an agreement with your spouse before applying for a divorce. This way, both parties are in a general understanding, setting the scene for a relatively simple process. The best-case scenario would be for both parties to agree, making a challenging time a little easier for all involved.
However, if things are more complicated, getting legal advice before proceeding will help you best figure out where to start. It may very well be possible to get divorced without going to court, but it may not, depending on the unique circumstances of your individual situation.
What are the Costs?
If you’re applying for a divorce yourself, the application fee is £550. There are resources available if you need help paying the fee, which you can see if you’re eligible for before applying. The petitioner traditionally pays the fee, but if you feel your spouse should be held financially responsible, there’s a box you can tick on the application form.
If you do end up needing a solicitor or going to court, the fees will increase depending on several factors, your solicitor’s going rate and court costs being among them. It’s difficult to predict these costs as they vary depending on your specific situation. Finding out up front will save you future headaches and allow you to find any help you might need.
How Long Will It Take?
All being well — that is if both parties agree, and issues being minimal — a divorce can be finalized in four to six months. However, if there is the issue of child arrangement, one partner disagreeing, or other concerns such as property or money to divide, the proceedings will likely take longer — some taking longer than a year (though this isn’t typical).
Both parties being in agreement, even when there are other issues to consider, makes the process much simpler and takes less time than it would if an agreement wasn’t possible. The Family Mediation Council can be very helpful in these situations, allowing both parties to air their grievances in a calm and controlled environment, eventually coming to an agreement that works for everyone involved.
Do I Need a Solicitor?
This answer will be different from case to case. Depending on your situation, a divorce can be either a simple filing of paperwork, a years-long court case, or somewhere in between. If both parties are in agreement and there are no children involved, you may be able to handle your divorce without the help of a solicitor — but this is a best-case scenario. While it is possible, there are usually a few issues to iron out.
If there are other issues to resolve, such as domestic abuse, a child arrangement order, or money and property claims, a solicitor will be most helpful in making sure all your bases are covered in court. Divorce solicitors or those that specialize in family law will be familiar with all the issues that can arise in these proceedings, helping you arrive at the best possible outcome.
Now What?
Whether your situation is simple or more complex, getting legal advice is a good place to start. This way, you’ll have all the answers you need before beginning the proceedings, whether you end up going to court or filing for yourself. A consultation with a divorce or family law legal consultant will help you to lay the groundwork, figure out your options, and give you the confidence to move forward in the best possible way for you.
When you need a helping hand during a difficult time, having a knowledgeable and experienced legal consultant to speak on your behalf can cut down your stress and allow you to focus on getting through it. Not only will you have less to think about but having a legal consultant on your side will help to assure the best possible outcome for everyone.
A Consultation Will Get You on the Right Path
Zain Legal & Co is available to help you with all your divorce and family law needs. We offer advice on difficult issues such as domestic abuse, child arrangement orders, and urgent hearings for when divorces get complicated. With our guidance, you can trust your case will be handled in a careful and concise manner, giving you the confidence that your divorce is in capable hands. With fees that are more affordable than most, Zain Legal & Co can help you on the financial side of your divorce as well as the practical.
To find out if Zain Legal & Co is a good fit for you, we offer a free 15-minute consultation. When you book your consultation we’ll discuss the details of your case, inform you on what it entails, and get you answers to any questions you have. To put your mind at ease and have your case handled by a reliable, responsible professional, book your free consultation today. We look forward to speaking with you and helping you find the right solution for your divorce and family law needs.
References:
https://www.citizensadvice.org.uk/family/how-to-separate1/getting-a-divorce/