Considerations Before Filing for Divorce
Going through a divorce involves several considerations. This article provides a starting point for preparing for a consultation with a divorce lawyer. Get in touch
Initial Eligibility Considerations
Before starting the divorce process, ask yourself:
– Is it clear that reconciliation is not possible?
– Is your marriage over a year old?
– Is your marriage legally recognized in the UK?
– Do either you or your spouse permanently reside in the UK?
A “yes” to these questions typically indicates eligibility to file for divorce.
Marriage Certificate
An original or certified copy of your marriage certificate is essential to begin the divorce process. If it’s misplaced, you can order a new one 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 Considerations
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. For a streamlined process, consider collecting these documents for voluntary financial disclosure:
– Records of income
– Bank statements
– Property ownership documents
– Pension and investment information
Non-Court Options for Divorce
When navigating divorce, especially financial arrangements, court should generally be your last option. When spouses disagree, several alternatives to court may be pursued:
– **Mediated negotiation**: A neutral mediator helps both parties reach an agreement.
– **Working collaboratively**: A collaborative approach with solicitors helps avoid court.
– **Solicitor-led negotiation**: Lawyers negotiate on behalf of each spouse.
Online applications are an option if you’re confident, but expert guidance is beneficial.
Child Arrangements During Divorce
The welfare of your children is usually a top concern during divorce. Divorce doesn’t directly cover child arrangements, so parents must find a workable plan. Mediation is available to help parents reach agreement if necessary. If there are concerns for safety, professional intervention is vital.
When planning for separation, consider discussing desired arrangements for the children with your spouse as early as possible. Continued co-parenting is possible, and open dialogue benefits the children’s well-being.
The Importance of Tailored Legal Advice
In the end, having legal advice tailored to you is invaluable. Book a consultation with a lawyer at Andrew Isaacs Law today and begin your journey to resolution. We are here for you