Divorce – Things can only get better!

The rise in divorce rates is sadly a common trend that is seen in times of economic turmoil.  Unfortunately, with couples currently being forced to spend unprecedented amounts of time together and with job losses and financial difficulties added to that, more couples will make the choice to separate and divorce.  For many people, lockdown has simply made them realise how unhappy they are.

However, the procedure for divorce is likely to be made easier very soon. MPs have voted overwhelmingly in favour of the Divorce, Dissolution and Separation Bill which, when passed, will finally end the requirement for couples to place blame against each other in order to be granted a divorce.  Current rules for fault-based divorce often means that there is unnecessary conflict at the start of the process.  It is hoped that the new legislation will help separating couples minimise the conflict between them which will, in turn, improve the outcomes for children of the family.

Louise Macmillan is the head of the family team at Bartons Solicitors and a member of Resolution. Resolution is a community of family justice professionals who work with families and individuals to resolve issues in a constructive way.  For more than 30 years, Resolution has campaigned for no fault divorce, a reform that will make divorce a kinder process.

Louise advises that the divorce process itself can be progressed using the court’s online divorce service which has continued to run during the current coronavirus pandemic and when it comes to any potential negotiations in reaching a financial settlement, this can also be done electronically.  The guidance from the family courts is that although family court business may not run normally before Spring 2021, there is a framework in place to keep matters moving effectively through the courts to help families deal with arrangements for children and financial settlements following the breakdown of relationships.

If you need advice or assistance with a divorce or separation, or matters relating to financial settlement or arrangements for children, Bartons Solicitors can provide this service for you.  Whether you need to take initial advice, need assistance along the way, or simply consider that the risk of doing things yourself is too great, taking professional advice is the quickest and safest way to protect your future.

For further advice and information, please contact Louise Macmillan at Bartons Solicitors at l.macmillan@bartons.co.uk or by telephone: 01548 854921