It’s not a race, you set the pace.
Every couple’s divorce journey from choosing to separate to the final order is different, and that is very important to remember from the start. Whatever path your divorce takes, there are some clear stepping stones that can help you get prepared. Here are five steps to approaching divorce from some of the best divorce law firms in London. These can help ensure you are emotionally strong and as organised as possible for your legal separation.
Acceptance And Communication
While every marriage breakdown can be an emotional rollercoaster, there are ways to make the ride a little calmer. This starts from the very beginning. Firstly, the uncomfortable part of sitting with your decision can be challenging. Allow yourself a neutral space and the time to accept the choice and that this is what you believe is best for your future. If the opportunity to do so is open, communicate with your partner. In some situations, abuse and tension makes this impossible. Do not judge yourself for that.
Speak to a family lawyer like one of the team members at Waterstone Legal, the best family law firm in London, or confide in a friend or family member. The more you communicate how you are feeling, the more you validate those feelings. If the relationship between you and your partner is amicable, communication is recommended. Discussing the divorce can be a healing and positive conversation and encourage you to approach the divorce together, as a team.
Decision Number One
Depending on the circumstances of your separation you will need to decide whether you are making a sole application or joint application. Under the new ‘no-faults’ system, the only requirement for a divorce is that the marriage has irretrievably broken down. If this is something you both agree on you can make a joint application. If your partner does not agree you can still go ahead and make a sole application. In very limited circumstances your partner can dispute the divorce and they must do so within 14 days of service. Before responding it is highly recommended to seek legal advice, which leads us on to the next step on your divorce journey.
Choose A Lawyer
Choosing the right lawyer can take a bit of time and research, if you have a family law firm near you then get in touch. Also, you can look around their website to see if they offer a free consultation. At Waterstone Legal, one of the best family law firms in the UK, you can chat to a lawyer via a free initial consultation. This gives you the space and opportunity to ensure they have the experience, expertise and care to handle your case. You can both use the same family law expert or choose to have separate representation depending on what you think is best. During this initial conversation, feel free to ask them any questions you are confused about. Also, ensure you are comfortable, have a good rapport and trust in the lawyer to let them help you.
The Negotiations
Once you have a lawyer by your side, you can confidently move on to the negotiations that need to take place in order for you to move on. This can include financial arrangements, such as whether you require spouse or child maintenance and any custodial decisions. It is possible today to divorce without a lawyer, however when there are children involved this is not ideal. You want to make sure everything is handled professionally and properly so that there is no animosity, tension and problems after the final order. Once the negotiations have taken place you can apply for a final order. Also note, the negotiations can be done via alternative dispute methods such as mediation, arbitration or through your lawyers guidance –
The Final Order And Self-Love
Congratulations – once you receive that final order you are officially divorced. Your feelings will inevitably be a little up and down at this stage and that’s ok. Whether you are over the moon or feeling overwhelmed and emotionally drained, allow yourself the time to heal, accept and move on to your next chapter at your own pace. Divorce is not a race and it does not always feel finalised as soon as you receive the order. You need to allow yourself time to emotionally move on so make self-love a part of that final order. Make sure you give yourself plenty of that as you take the next steps towards your future.
The Wrap Up
Divorce is a journey and every couple must move at their own pace. From choosing how to apply, finding the right lawyer to negotiating the settlement – it is important to be kind and gentle to yourself. The final order makes your divorce official, still even at this stage plenty of self-love is vital as you move on to your next chapter.
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