Legal News

Since May 2018, members of the public have been able to apply for divorce online. With the introduction of no-fault divorce on 6 April 2022, the process has become even simpler: you no longer need a reason to get a divorce, just a statement that the marriage has broken down irretrievably. While this change in law has made it easier for couples to leave their marriages, it has also led some to apply for divorce without fully considering all the implications.

Before deciding to get a divorce, it is imperative that you and your ex-partner think about how you are going to divide any shared finances, what may happen to any properties you both own, and what the provisions for the children will be. Even if you and your ex-partner do not have any joint assets, it is always recommended that you seek advice from a solicitor to ensure that anything you acquire post-divorce is protected.

Bristol University Family Law team recently published the Fair Shares Report, which examines how divorcing couples in England and Wales reach financial agreements. The report found that out of 100,000 divorcing couples, only 40% had a legally binding financial agreement. This finding is concerning, as without an agreement in place, divorcing couples can make future claims against each other.

The report also highlighted that many people are dissuaded from seeking legal advice due to the perceived costs involved. This often results in people not achieving a fair outcome, particularly those who are financially vulnerable.

At Duncan Lewis, we understand the importance of accessible legal guidance. That’s why our team offers an initial fixed-fee appointment of £150.00 to discuss any concerns you may have. We provide a full range of services and can assist you with clear and concise legal advice. In most cases, we can help you reach a financial agreement without the need for court intervention.

If you are contemplating separation or divorce, please do not hesitate to contact a member of our family team who will be happy to assist. Prioritising legal advice now can save you from potential complications and ensure a fair resolution for your future.

Duncan Lewis’ Family and Child Care department is ranked by The Legal 500 and Chambers and Partners legal directories for our family and matrimonial work nationwide. The Family team is experience in assisting high net worth individuals in divorce matters with specialist divorce solicitors with expertise in domestic abuse, adoption, child abduction, prohibitive steps orders, specific issues orders, injunctions, spousal and child maintenance, properties, pensions and freezing injunctions. Our team includes solicitors who have achieved the Law Society’s Children Law and Family Law Advanced accreditations providing advocacy in all court proceedings, ensuring our clients receive a consistent and professional service as well as a high degree of continuity.

Amelia Birch Gardener is a Solicitor in the Family department at Duncan Lewis Solicitors. She provides expert advice to clients in relation to all private family matters including Divorce, Financial Matters, Children Arrangements, Cohabitation Disputes, Separation Agreements, Domestic Abuse, Pre-Nupital Agreements and Change of Name Deeds.

For comprehensive guidance and expert representation in high-net-worth divorce cases, contact Amelia Birch Gardener at ameliabg@duncanlewis.com or via telephone on 02070147380

For more information from High Net Worth Divorce specialists, watch our videos here