The new year is a time for reflection and looking ahead, which often means that it can be one of the busiest periods in the diary of a family lawyer. New year, new beginnings may be a cliché but it is also often true for separation, as those difficult decisions that you didn’t want to face in the run up to Christmas were postponed until the festivities were over.
There is one thing that is always true and that is, you don’t have to do this alone. We would always advise getting as much support as possible – family, friends and therapeutic services are going to put you in the best and strongest mindset to deal with the practicalities ahead. This also applies to getting the support of a family lawyer.
A recent article in the Guardian was a stark warning that trying to resolve your divorce/separation and associated financial and children issues ‘on the cheap’ may be leaving women (in particular) worse off.
The rise of online solutions and DIY divorce is potentially leaving many (often women facing potential financial insecurity and unfair outcomes.
A recent report called The Fair Share Report led by the University of Bristol and funded by the Nuffield Foundation, found that only two in five divorcees in England and Wales made use of lawyers as a source of information and support. The worry of the cost was a key factor in the decision not to appoint a solicitor.
The danger is that the financially more vulnerable party is going to end up worse off and with a potentially binding agreement that affects them both now and in the future.
We see this in particular with pensions, where often one (or both) parties do not understand the true value of them, how they should be treated and that they are a separate, distinct and important asset to be considered and shared. We are also seeing an increase in separating couples who have ‘agreed a settlement themselves’ (which is commendable) without taking legal advice and without reality-checking that the proposed settlement meets the needs of both parties.
The report’s author Emma Hitchings stated: “In the wake of cuts to legal aid, and hampered by a lack of financial and legal knowledge, couples are trying to divorce on the cheap. But this means that they are bypassing a legal system designed to achieve fairness. That is leaving women worse off and putting their future financial security at risk.”
Here at Hartlaw LLP we offer a free initial consultation so that you can get a better understanding of the process, options and, importantly, the cost.
We can help you navigate your way through the complexities of financial settlement in the most cost-effective and amicable way that is right for you. Taking legal advice does not mean going to court.
Our experienced family team consists of specialist solicitors who, with over 50 years of experience between them, can help support you in resolving your legal issues and looking to the future.
Please contact our family law assistants on 01937 54020 or 547016 to make an appointment
Read the full Handpicked Local magazine here.
