January is often a time when many look to make changes. That could be a New Year’s resolution as small as joining a gym; however, for some, it could be a time of significant and life-changing decisions. The first month of the year will see many couples decide on divorce, with the first working Monday referred to as ‘Divorce Day’. Christmas is over, the distractions have come to an end. For those who have stayed together for the children over the festive period, the time has now arrived to address the situation.
The stresses of Christmas, particularly for those who have children, can mean that cracks suddenly begin to expand and boiling point is finally reached. Finances also play a part, the stress of returning to work and the time off over the festive period often gives people time to reflect and ponder whether your spouse is the one for you. The added pressure of starting a new decade and reflecting over the last ten years could also play a factor this year for some.
I have handled many divorce cases since I began my law career 30 years ago. Obviously, the majority of these cases have involved a range of emotions and often distress. My priority is to ensure that the process is as stress free as possible, and it is my responsibility to help my client avoid any unnecessary trauma during what could be the most stressful experience of their lives – which often involves keeping the process out of court.
Before the introduction of the collaborative family law approach, a reasonably new method begun by family lawyers to manage the divorce process in a dignified manner, I would conduct Round Table Meetings – a form of mediation.
Round Table Meetings provide the advantage of having your lawyer present with you during the meeting. In most cases, it should be possible for a couple to reach a compromise without the need for costly court proceedings. One way of doing this is for you and your solicitor to meet with your ‘ex’ and their solicitor if the matter is about who will see the children, how often and where then the meeting could take place quite quickly.
The first step for those wishing to begin divorce proceedings is to provide a comprehensive as possible summary of your finances in order for your lawyers to assess your situation. This could include the estimated value of your house, the remaining mortgage, any savings or investments and debts. It is also good to have an idea of living arrangements, and if there are children involved, how much time they will spend with each parent and where. We understand that the decision to divorce can be distressing and it is our priority to give the right advice to guide you through what could be an overwhelming process with dignity and to allow you to move forward.
If you need help with your divorce or separation, then why not contact us for a Next Steps Divorce Advice Session and to see how we can help you. We can be contacted on:
Family Law Specialists Solicitors Newcastle: 0191 284 6989
Family Law Specialists Solicitors Sunderland: 0191 567 6667
or email us: enquiries@emmersons-solicitors.co.uk
Or complete our Online Enquiry Form and select family law
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