Divorce

Divorce itself is usually the simplest part of marriage breakdown. If handled sensibly, it normally passes through by consent. However there are a few issues that need to be carefully handled:

Is this a permanent breakdown or can it be worked out?

If the latter, what measures need to be taken to safeguard the client's interests while he/she tries? We believe it is important to listen to the client and find out what they really want, then set out the options within the whole context. The last thing a client needs is for the first meeting with their matrimonial solicitor to start an express train which may take them somewhere they didn't plan to go.

If the couple can't stay together, what next?

Does the client want divorce, or does he/she want to consider alternative forms of separation? Are there any complications, such as religious considerations or foreign law, or possible defects in the validity of the marriage, to be addressed?

How is the divorce itself to be handled?

Divorce starts with a petition, which is one party's list of the facts on which he/she says the marriage breakdown is based. It's important for your divorce lawyer to strike the right balance between getting the necessary facts across and avoiding unnecessary bad will. We have the experience to draft the right level of petition, and to negotiate having it agreed by the other side to avoid unnecessary hostility and excessive costs.