‘Divorce Day’ is a myth – but if separation is on your mind, focus on strategically planning for it

Although 6^th January has previously been cited as ‘Divorce Day’, MSB Solicitors is keen to point out that the statistics for enquiries about divorce are no different to those on any other day of the year.

The compulsory 20-week period from issuing proceedings to applying for a conditional order mean that the absolute minimum duration an applicant must wait for a divorce to be finalised from the date of issuing is six months. This is part of the reason why clients no longer wait for significant dates like Christmas and New Year to pass before beginning proceedings.

MSB Solicitors’ team of family law solicitors are experts in the field and instead recommend strategically planning for device by following these tips:

• Before making the decision to begin proceedings, put together a trusted support network made up of close friends, family members and professionals in the field

• Take legal advice before the process begins. Preparation is vital. It is advisable to begin collating financial documents to include the CETV of pension funds, bank statements and the redemption figure of any mortgages. These are important later on when discussing a financial settlement that is ancillary to the divorce

• Remember to look after yourself during the process. Eat well, ensure you are getting enough sleep and exercise regularly

• Consider seeing a counsellor if things feel like they are getting too much and you are struggling

• Do not involve children in adult conflicts. Try and keep all arrangements related to children as child focused as possible

• Be patient, because the process will not be completed overnight. Focus on long-term goals and what you would like to receive as an overall settlement

• Do not send communications to your ex-partner in the heat of the moment which could be embarrassing later. Rein in any mid-argument frustrations

• Do not be influenced by the experiences of others during their divorces. Every divorce is unique

• Do not fear the prospect of going to court. It is unlikely you will have to attend court for matters relating to the divorce itself, but if you must attend in relation to children or financial matters, it is important to understand that the court is there to assist you

• In cases that do not involve complex issues surrounding children or finances, consider mediation. It can be a less acrimonious and more cost-effective solution towards reaching a mutual resolution

John Owens, Partner at MSB Solicitors, said: “Divorce is a serious, stressful and difficult process which requires serious consideration.

“Although no divorce is entirely pain-free, by following MSB Solicitors’ advice you can help mitigate the difficulty of the process and ease the burden on all involved parties,” he added.