Frequently Asked Questions

A divorce can be started so long as you have been married for at least one year. A divorce petition is prepared and submitted to the court. You can read about the Divorce process here. The other party then receives an acknowledgement form. You can then proceed to the Decree Nisi stage (the interim divorce order) and, after waiting six weeks and one day, you can apply for the Decree Absolute (the final divorce order). Extra care is needed where the case has an international element to it as a divorce could possibly be started in more than one country but the financial outcomes might be significantly different.

Usually an uncontested divorce process takes about four to six months to complete. This is mainly due to the court turn around times. Any issues to do with the children or finances could take longer, often between six and twelve months. It is always worth seeking the advice of a family law specialist to ensure that the process is fully and properly completed and that you have fully investigated the financial implications involved. You can find advice to ensure your divorce is as quick & easy as possible here.

It is important that there is full disclosure of the family’s finances and from both parties. Normally a request is made for voluntary financial disclosure. This includes details of all assets (including business interests), liabilities, income, outgoings and pension provision together with documents in support. Where a party refuses to do this then you are entitled (through a divorce) to make a financial application. The Court will then automatically set a court timetable for certain tasks to be completed. One of those tasks is the preparation and exchange of financial information in a form called ‘Form E’. You are then entitled to consider the financial disclosure and prepare relevant questions if you and your solicitor feel more information or clarification is needed.

Good preparation will help you. Some useful points to consider are: Prepare a short chronology of your relationship noting any relevant dates and events Prepare a summary of assets, liabilities and income of the family’s finances as best you can Prepare a list of any questions or points you wish to raise or which are a concern for you This will allow your family law solicitor get to grips with the relevant issues straightaway; it will also save time and allow you to get the most out of your first meeting. At the end of the meeting you can consider your list of questions and raise any points which may not have been dealt with. You can also ask your solicitor to summarise (in writing too) the points of advice and the next steps to take. It is important that you are able to form a working relationship with your solicitor and that you can work together as a team. We offer a Roadmap service for our clients at the first initial consultation

It is important to retain some level of communication with your partner. Cases that often proceed to expensive court hearings are usually those where there is little or no communication between the parties. It is important to focus on the relevant issues and work as a team and with your family solicitor. Communication can be the key to unlocking the problem and finding a solution.