Head of Family at JCP Solicitors Answers Your Common Questions on Divorce

The difficult decision to start divorce proceedings can leave you with an abundance of questions.

How do I start proceedings? How long does it take? And how will our children be affected? These are just some of the most common questions couples ask when they choose to split.

Jill Bulteel, Director and Head of Family at JCP Solicitors, answers some of the most common questions she is asked about divorce.

Q) I am thinking about starting divorce proceedings but where do I start? What are the first steps to take?

A) In the first instance, couples who feel that their marriage has irretrievably broken down should contact a specialist who can discuss their case sensitively.

As solicitors, we recognise that this is an emotional and extremely difficult time for you and your family.

As such we are there to listen to you and help you get through this time in the most simple and stress-free way.

The solicitor will help you:

• Outline what you feel the issues in the marriage are
• Whether these can be resolved with mediation
• If not, they can discuss your options and outline what your rights are
• They will also explain your ex-partner’s rights
• Give an outline of how the process will progress

Q) How long does a divorce take?

A) The divorce process can take a minimum of 26 weeks, however, more complex cases involving finances and other matters can lead to a longer divorce.

Q) I’m really worried about the divorce proceedings having an impact on my children, what can I do to make it less stressful for them?

A) The living arrangements involving the children will be dealt with separately from the divorce, however, ensuring the children’s wellbeing at this challenging time will be the top priority for any divorce solicitor.

As such they may encourage you to use alternative dispute resolution to resolve matters involving your children, to help minimise the stress involved in child-related disagreements.

Q) My husband and I have a number of joint accounts and property to separate, how do we start doing this?

A) Financial matters can become incredibly complex, particularly if spouses have investments, pensions, property, and business interests to separate.

As such a divorce solicitor with experience in financial matters can talk you through this process in detail to ensure all finances are divided fairly.

Q) Do you have any key advice for couples considering divorce?

We recognise that divorce is extremely upsetting and stressful for families.

If you do come to a decision that divorce is the right choice for you, then it is really important that you get the right legal advice to ensure this difficult time is handled sensitively and professionally.

Ultimately your solicitor is there to guide you through all your options and to ensure you know your legal rights. They want to help you start the next chapter of your life in as positive a way as possible.

JCP Solicitors has a highly experienced family law team which is dedicated to supporting families through this challenging time. Their professional team aim to make your divorce and any financial claims as smooth and stress-free as possible. Providing you with sensitive but practical advice about your options and helping you avoid conflict wherever possible. To find out more email law@jcpsolicitors.co.uk or call 03333 208644.