Many individuals may decide to file for their divorce alone, without the aid of legal guidance, however many of our clients’ divorce cases are far more complex regarding the dividing of finances, assets, and child custody than initially thought. If you are finding it hard to achieve common ground with your partner, are a busy individual who does not have time to file your divorce by yourself, or would simply rather receive legal guidance, then our services could be right for you.
What to expect from the divorce process
Many of our clients may not know what to expect from the legal process, which is where our divorce solicitors in Guildford can help. It is important to remember that each divorce varies greatly. The complexity of a case can weigh heavily on the intricacies of certain factors such as property, division of finances and children’s welfare, and the ability of the couple concerned to come to an agreement, however there are several standard procedures that are always followed.
Taking the first step
Once you have reached out to our divorce solicitors in Guildford via our free initial consultation over the telephone, email address, or our online message service, then you may be wondering what happens next! Every divorce starts with a divorce petition and eventually ends with a decree absolute, and our lawyers are here to help you, every step of the way.
What is a divorce petition?
This is a legal term that is heard often in the field of divorce law, however many of our clients may be unsure of the true meaning. A divorce petition is required from one member of the partnership in order to issue the divorce, and can be based on various factors. For example, adultery, unreasonable behaviour, desertion for two years or more, living apart for more than two years (which requires both parties to agree), and lastly living apart for more than five years (which does not require both parties to agree).
What happens next?
After the divorce petition has been administered this can be approved and sent to the ‘respondent’ (which is the other member of the party), this can then be sent back to court. After everything has been finalised the respondent’s acknowledgement can then be sent to either the solicitor, or the petitioner.
The final stage
The petitioner or the solicitor will now prepare the papers for the next step, the decree NISI. After the decree NISI is announced the solicitor or the petitioner can apply for the decree absolute (after six weeks and one day has passed).
It’s official
After the decree has been completed the marriage partners are officially divorced, however matters such as finances, assets, and child care arrangements may have to be made independently and require the aid of a legal specialist.
How much does a divorce cost?
Every divorce is completely different, however there are several fixed costs that are involved within the legal process. Whether you are filing for your divorce alone or seeking legal advice there is a fixed court fee which is always required. In addition to the fixed court fee individuals who are seeking legal advice from our solicitors will have a fixed cost to pay, the details of which can be obtained on request.