Entering into the divorce process is a daunting and emotional time, and it can be difficult to think clearly and logically about each step required. The underlying common necessity in any divorce situation, is the help of strong legal representation.
To apply for a divorce you must have been married for a year. The only ground for divorce is now the irretrievable breakdown of the marriage.
Our family law team are experts in all aspects of the divorce procedure and will work with you to understand your situation, taking into account your needs and requirements when it comes to property, assets, childcare arrangements and more.
Adopting a non-confrontational yet assertive approach, we will:
- Advise on the divorce process;
- Complete all necessary paperwork;
- Work with you to reach a suitable arrangement between you both where there are children to be considered.
- Resolve any disputes about children including issues about Parental Responsibility.
- Help you to sort out financial matters.
- Advise and to resolve any property disputes.
- advise you on making a will or updating an existing will in which your spouse may be mentioned;
- liaise with pension providers when there are issues around entitlement to divide pension benefits;
- Represent you in Court Proceedings to resolve financial issues or issues regarding the children.
No fault divorce explained
What is no fault divorce?
On 6 April 2022, the divorce law changed from the Matrimonial Causes Act 1973 to the Divorce, Dissolution and Separation Act 2020. The law changed due to criticism that those divorcing had to blame their spouse. The new divorce law, called no fault divorce, no longer place blames or fault on either party involved, allowing divorcing couples to achieve an amicable divorce.
Can a no-fault divorce be challenged?
Previously it was possible for a divorce to be contested, but this is no longer possible except in very limited circumstances. For example, the marriage was not valid
How long does no fault divorce take to finalise?
The minimum time that a no-fault divorce can take is 26 weeks (6 months), and this is due to two different waiting times between each Order. Once the court has issued the court proceedings, there is a cooling off period of 20 weeks before the applicant(s) can apply for the Conditional Order (previously Decree Nisi) to be granted. After this, there is a further 6 weeks wait before the applicant(s) can apply for the Final Order to be issued.
Advising families throughout Chatham, Kent and beyond
We have offices in Chatham, Gravesend, Tonbridge, Maidstone and Tenterden where we can meet you to discuss your requirements.
We can also offer remote meetings by Skype for clients who have to travel extensively or who now live abroad. In exceptional circumstances.
Fixed Fees and Costs
We offer an initial 30 minute appointment to discuss your requirements from £115 plus VAT. We can then advise you of your legal options and the likely costs involved.
After that, we can arrange flexible payment terms, including monthly billing to help you budget.
Get in touch with our divorce solicitors in Chatham, Kent
Call us on 01634 811444 if you need our help. Alternatively, complete our Contact Us form, and we will be in touch as soon as possible.