The Importance of Hiring a Family Law Solicitor for Divorce Proceedings

They may have many questions regarding what will happen with the family house, living arrangements, finances, children’s schooling, contact arrangements, and familial assets. And, of course, from an emotional perspective, divorce and dissolution can be deeply traumatic. Family law Solicitors are trained and experienced in all aspects of divorce and dissolution and will guide you through the process from outset to completion. They help to guide their clients through the maze of divorce to ensure the best possible outcome. But why specifically is it important to hire a family law Solicitor in divorce or dissolution proceedings?

Resolve disputes amicably outside of the court

Family law Solicitors understand the considerable benefits of achieving an amicable outcome in divorce proceedings outside of the court system. Divorce-related court cases tend to be highly contentious, stressful, time-consuming, and expensive. They can also negatively impact the ongoing relationship between separating couples which can be devastating for any children involved.

This is why many family law Solicitors use non-contentious dispute resolution approaches such as collaborative law, negotiation, mediation and arbitration. Such methods have considerable benefits, including:

·        Reducing and managing conflict and confrontation

·        Supporting and encouraging families to put the best interests of any children first, and

·        Acting with honesty, integrity and objectivity

This type of non-contentious approach can be used even in the most complex and difficult of matters and typically has a much better outcome compared to relying on the courts. Not only are relationships more likely to be preserved, but any agreements reached are also more likely to be adhered to in the long term.

Negotiation

Family law Solicitors will work to ensure you achieve the best possible outcome for you and your children. Whether negotiating a financial settlement, child arrangements, or division of matrimonial assets, family Solicitors have the training and expertise to negotiate in a manner that affords greater control, reduces stress, and saves money and time. Solicitor-led negotiation can be used without the need for court intervention or alongside court proceedings.

Allaying your concerns

Often clients who are at the start of divorce or dissolution proceedings simply need to voice their concerns and have each addressed in turn. They may be deeply worried about losing access to their children, money, or their property. It may also be that they are concerned that their partner will not negotiate in good faith or provide full financial disclosure. And those who are at risk of domestic violence may worry about becoming homeless.

Family law Solicitors are well-versed in explaining the process of divorce and allaying the concerns of their clients. Your family law Solicitor will:

• listen to you
• explain the ways forward
• explain your rights, your ex-partner’s rights, and those of your children
• help you understand your ex-partner’s rights
• provide advice regarding your family, home and financial security

Simply understanding the order of proceedings, how non-contentious dispute resolution can be beneficial, and the factors that judges take into account in court proceedings can offer considerable peace of mind.

Child arrangements

Family law Solicitors prioritise the safety and needs of children in divorce and dissolution proceedings. They will ensure that arrangements are put in place as soon as possible for where your children will live, how they will be financially provided for, and ongoing contact arrangements. In addition, they will help to reach an agreement on other child-related matters, such as where they will spend time during school holidays and who will pay for private school fees. 

Handle the process on your behalf

By engaging a family law Solicitor to handle your divorce or dissolution, you can relax in the knowledge that the process will be completed on your behalf. They will complete your divorce application and financial disclosure form (Form E), ensuring that all of the necessary details are provided. This avoids the potential for the rejection of forms by the court because they have not been completed correctly. They will also negotiate with your ex-partner and their legal representative, so you don’t have to.

If your ex-partner is not forthcoming with any information (e.g. financial disclosure), your Solicitor will take the necessary action to ensure that they are compelled to comply with the court. If your ex-partner attempts to hide financial or other assets, your Solicitor will have the resources necessary to ensure these are traced and identified.

Final words

Engaging the services of a family law Solicitor to handle a divorce is not compulsory, but doing so confers many benefits. This is especially so if the separation involves children, family businesses, complex financial arrangements, overseas property, and where both parties cannot agree. With an experienced and empathic family law Solicitor on your side, you can relax in the knowledge that everything will be done to protect your interests and those of your children.

For a free consultation to discuss your divorce or dissolution, including any child or financial arrangements, please call our understanding and caring family law team on 0208 300 6666.