Divorce Day – media hype or real thing?

Last month we saw the usual media hype around Divorce Day – where some solicitors report a spike in divorce inquiries. But is it true? Well, kind of.

Yes, we sometimes see an increase in inquiries in January, but we don’t think that’s down to it being a month where couples suddenly decide to divorce. It’s more likely that relationships have naturally broken down and people choose to stay together over the Christmas period, or it could simply be that our business closes over the Christmas period, so naturally, there is an increase in custom.

We specialise in family law, particularly divorce for high-net-worth clients, and we pride ourselves on achieving the best outcome for our clients and their family. So, whenever our clients choose to get in touch, for us, it’s about providing the best service we possibly can.

Legal support during a divorce is vital as it can be a complex procedure to navigate and ensure the best outcome. In addition, many clients need to explore financial settlements and child arrangements, as well as divorce, so it’s important to find a law firm with experience.

It’s a common misconception that divorce will involve a long-drawn-out court battle with high costs, but there is a range of options, such as collaborative divorce, mediation, arbitration, and negotiation, which will achieve the same result without having to go to court and are our first port of call.

On 6th April 2022, a new No-Fault Divorce process will be introduced in the UK. The reform will introduce a new, notification-based system that consents to divorce without having to confirm one of the five reasons below for an irretrievable breakdown.

• Unreasonable behaviour – Conduct by you or your partner deemed sufficient to cause the irretrievable breakdown of your marriage.
• Adultery – Defined as voluntary sexual intercourse between a married person and a person who is not their spouse.
• Living apart for two years (and both partners agree to the divorce).
• Living apart for five years.
• Desertion for at least two years – occurs when one partner leaves the other without their knowledge or agreement.

There’s more information about the divorce process here, where we also have easy-to-digest FAQs. However, if you have any questions or feel that you may need support from our team, get in touch to have an initial discussion.

Our very own Adela Manzoor also hosts regular online divorce information sessions and, in March, is holding a series of six online workshops together with an expert psychologist. It will cover things like the divorce process, financial planning, and arrangements for children while also discussing the emotional aspects you might face. Tickets are available on Eventbrite under ‘The ultimate divorce package’ or head over to our social media pages for more information.