
Considerations Before Filing for Divorce
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Going through a divorce involves several considerations. This guide isn’t exhaustive but may help you prepare for an initial consultation with one of our experienced solicitors. Get in touch
Basic Requirements for Divorce
Before starting the divorce process, ask yourself:
– Has your marriage broken down irretrievably?
– Have you been married for at least one year?
– Is your marriage valid under UK law?
– Is the UK considered the permanent residence of you or your spouse?
Answering “yes” to all questions usually means you’re eligible for divorce.
Proof of Marriage
An official or certified marriage certificate is required to begin the divorce process. In case it’s missing, you may order a replacement online. If the certificate isn’t where you last kept it, your spouse may have initiated divorce steps. We can help you
Managing Financial Matters
It’s essential to understand that financial settlements are distinct from divorce proceedings. You can legally divorce without addressing finances, but failing to do so may carry future risks. For efficiency, gather the following information as part of voluntary disclosure:
– Income statements
– Statements from financial institutions
– Property ownership documents
– Pension and investment information
Alternatives to Court
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:
– **Mediated negotiation**: A neutral mediator helps both parties reach an agreement.
– **Collaborative legal process**: Both spouses work with their lawyers to reach a peaceful agreement.
– **Lawyer-guided negotiations**: Solicitors handle communications between you and your 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
If you have children, concerns around their welfare often become paramount during divorce. Divorce doesn’t directly cover child arrangements, so parents must find a workable plan. 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. Continued co-parenting is possible, and open dialogue benefits the children’s well-being.
Legal Advice Tailored to You
In the end, having legal advice tailored to you is invaluable. Reach out to Andrew Isaacs Law for an initial consultation and take confident steps toward a resolution. We are here for you