Although divorce is often seen as the result of conflict, this is sometimes the wrong assumption to make.
The fact is that in some cases, marriage comes to an end because a couple has grown apart. There’s no bad feeling and no desire to appoint blame. And even if there is blame to be had, it doesn’t mean that contention and bad feeling have to be the stand-out characteristics of a divorce.
If this is resonating with your own situation, you might be reluctant to involve a solicitor. After all, solicitors only deal with the negatives, right? Wrong.
Having a family law expert in your corner will help everyone to achieve the fairest outcome in the most efficient way possible, and there are many benefits to instructing a solicitor sooner rather than later.
Here we’re discussing just a few of the ways in which a solicitor can help with an amicable divorce.
Protect your finances
Divorce comes with many financial implications. Should the matrimonial home be sold? Will spousal maintenance be paid? What will happen to any pensions? These are all questions that need to be answered, irrespective of how amicable your divorce may be.
Having the advice of an expert family solicitor will give you the realistic advice you need about the best outcome not just in the here and now, but also for your future.
It’s also worth noting that any agreement you come to with your ex with regard to a financial settlement won’t be legally binding without a court order. So having a solicitor that you can rely on will ensure that you achieve finality and financial security.
Save time
Without legal support and guidance, the scope for mistakes during a divorce is massive. Forms being filled out incorrectly for example, or not fully understanding the legal terminology used.
Mistakes are costly, not only in terms of time, but money too. Your intention to get matters wrapped up quickly can very easily backfire, and result in delay without the right legal advice.
To identify when court proceedings are appropriate
It’s very easy for couples to find themselves in a never-ending back and forth of letters, proposals and suggestions about what’s fair. Once that happens, it’s difficult to see the wood for the trees and it’s easy to lose your sense of direction. And that’s where a solicitor can help.
Contrary to popular opinion, family solicitors don’t want to start court proceedings, and a good solicitor will work hard to avoid doing so. However, in some circumstances, starting court proceedings can be necessary to resolve the issues, and having an expert legal solicitor in your corner will help to identify if and when going to court might be appropriate, ultimately saving time and money in the long run.
Cover all the bases
Whilst you may believe that your divorce is amicable, and that your soon to be ex-spouse wouldn’t do anything unfair in terms of a settlement, without full financial picture and expert legal advice, there’s simply no guarantee that any agreement you reach will be right for you.
Financial assets include more than just the family home. Investments, heirlooms and pensions are just a few of the financial assets that you might not have considered, but that could have a massive impact on your future financial stability. Not to mention what will happen to any inheritances.
If you’re looking for a compassionate and experienced solicitor to guide you through your divorce, we’re here to help. We have years of expertise supporting our clients to get the best possible outcome for their future, and will always have your best interests at heart.
Contact us today to find out more.