During the COVID pandemic there has been a lot of focus on effects of lockdown and restrictions upon mental health but it seems clear that relationships have also felt the strain. Couples who had been managing to get along in normal times have struggled to cope with extended periods of confinement with each other, or perhaps the pandemic has made them re-evaluate priorities and to consider whether they want move on from an unsatisfactory relationship. Whatever the catalyst, in these changed times it still remains the case that getting proper advice is as vital as ever.
If you have decided to end your marriage or Civil Partnership, do not just concentrate on the legal process to dissolve it. Any decent family law solicitor will tell you that the divorce is just the tip of the iceberg. It is far more important to consider the other consequences of leaving the relationship, particularly the future arrangements for your children if you have them. After that, sorting out the money is hugely important – what should happen about the house, dividing assets, pensions – should there be maintenance? Getting all that right is crucial, especially in these uncertain times. We see many self–negotiated settlements where people sell themselves short or have agreed to schemes which fail because they are unworkable.
If you get advice from a family law solicitor, you will probably be able to negotiate an agreement without having to spend lots of time energy and money on a dispute which has to be resolved by a Court. The cost will be modest compared to what you might lose if you go ahead without advice and settle for less than the law would consider fair and reasonable or agree to a deal which falls down and needs to be revisited later.
Our family team are on hand to offer the appropriate advice on these sensitive matters in a proactive and courteous manner.
