Considerations Before Filing for Divorce
When approaching divorce, it’s important to consider various factors. This guide isn’t exhaustive but may help you prepare for an initial consultation with one of our experienced solicitors. Get in touch
Key Eligibility Questions
Before starting the divorce process, ask yourself:
– Is your marriage beyond repair?
– Have you been married for more than a year?
– Is your marriage legally recognized in the UK?
– Is the UK your or your spouse’s permanent home?
If you can answer “yes” to each question, you’re likely eligible to proceed with a divorce.
Marriage Certificate
An original or certified marriage document is necessary to begin the divorce process. Should you need a copy, it’s available for order online. Sometimes, if the certificate is missing from its usual location, it could mean that your spouse has taken steps to initiate the proceedings. We can help you
Financial Aspects of Divorce
It’s important to remember that divorce and financial matters are separate issues. Financial arrangements can be postponed, but it’s generally advisable to resolve them. To be prepared for voluntary financial disclosure and to facilitate a smoother resolution, consider gathering the following documents:
– Pay slips or income records
– Statements from financial institutions
– Proof of property ownership
– Pension and investment information
Non-Court Options for Divorce
When approaching financial arrangements in divorce, it’s best to view court as a last resort. When spouses disagree, several alternatives to court may be pursued:
– **Mediation**: A neutral party works with you to find resolution.
– **Collaborative law**: Each party works with a solicitor in a non-adversarial setting.
– **Solicitor-led negotiation**: Lawyers negotiate on behalf of each spouse.
If you’re confident handling the process, you may also consider filing your application online, though having expert support can often ease the complexities.
Children of the Family
The welfare of your children is usually a top concern during divorce. Child arrangements are separate from divorce, and parents should aim to settle matters together. You can turn to mediation if agreeing on arrangements proves difficult. If safety is a worry, it’s important to seek help right away.
Start discussing arrangements with your spouse early to avoid later conflicts. Divorce doesn’t mean the end of co-parenting; open communication can make a significant difference in your children’s experience during this transition.
Legal Advice Tailored to You
Finally, seek personalized legal advice specific to your circumstances. Reach out to Andrew Isaacs Law for an initial consultation and take confident steps toward a resolution. We are here for you