When you first start thinking about divorce and all the challenges that lie ahead it can all feel pretty overwhelming.  In our experience, the way things are handled in the initial stages before you divorce can have a big impact on the outcome and how long the whole process takes.

Here are 5 things to think about to put you on the right track before you divorce:

Where do I start?

Most people who seek our advice are completely at a loss to know where to start.  They don’t know what to expect both in terms of the outcome or how to get there. Naturally, they are worried about the future and what it might hold for them. Some may have no idea what money there is available because the other looked after the money during the marriage. Don’t let this stop you from taking legal advice. We can help you understand how to move forward and by seeking advice early, you are putting yourself in the best position to secure a fair outcome for you and your family.

I’m more concerned about my children than the money

For most parents the financial arrangements are secondary to the arrangements for the children. This is understandable and when people first approach us we spend time helping them plan how they will discuss the divorce with their children and how they will continue to parent together after divorce. Sorting out the arrangements for your children can be very emotional and our job is to make sure you don’t lose sight of the financial negotiations, so that you and your family can enjoy a secure future once all this is behind you.

I don’t want to fight for every penny

Most people we see want to reach an agreement with their husband or wife quickly and don’t want to fight about it but they are also worried about what the future holds and want to be financially secure. Don’t feel guilty about seeking legal advice about money and property early on.  You will be better informed about your options when you are discussing arrangements with your husband or wife and that knowledge may help you reach a workable agreement and avoid you agreeing something which may leave you vulnerable. If you are keen to remain amicable throughout read our advice on how to avoid going to court.

How do I find out what money there is?

You will need to be open with one another and share your financial documents as part of the divorce process. This can be hard when trust has been lost and emotions are raw and this is where we can help to secure financial information on your behalf. If you suspect money may have been hidden, we can undertake a thorough investigation of your financial position to make sure that everything possible is known. Tempting as it might be to go through your spouse’s personal files, it can be unlawful to access someone’s private information without their consent, even if you are their husband or wife.

Is it the right time?

If you have been unhappy for some time and have built up the courage to tell your husband or wife that you want to separate, you will be keen to resolve the arrangements for the children and money as soon as possible.  However, this may be unexpected from your spouse’s point of view and they will need time to come to terms with your decision before they can possibly think about plans for the future.  It is recommended that you take legal advice at an early stage but, unless there is something urgent which needs to be resolved, we would normally recommend waiting a little while before trying to negotiate arrangements.

Andrew Meehan and Carol Jessop are the only family lawyers based in Harrogate accredited by Resolution for dealing with complex financial arrangements following divorce.

To speak to one of our friendly solicitors for a confidential chat give us a call today on 01423 594680.

Andrew Meehan is an experienced family lawyer specialising in complex divorces involving significant or hidden assets, as well as cases involving children.

He is recommended for family law by both Chambers 2019 (York, Hull and surrounding regions) and the Legal 500 2018 (Leeds/West Yorkshire and North Yorkshire region).

Everyone’s circumstances are different and this article is provided by way of general information only and must not be relied upon.  If you require legal advice on a family law issue, please feel free to contact us by emailing enquiries@harrogatefamilylaw.co.uk.