The emotional stress involved with the breakdown of a relationship can be particularly damaging to a family. That’s why at Pickering & Butters, our key aim is to make this difficult time as straightforward as we can by providing practical, sympathetic advice so you can benefit from a clear mind when making important decisions.
When you instruct one of our specialist divorce solicitors, we will steer you away from conflict towards resolution with minimal fuss, allowing you to focus on rebuilding a stable future for your family.
Our divorce solicitors in Stafford and Rugeley offer advice on:
- Your eligibility for divorce and how the no fault divorce process works
- Making a sole or joint divorce application
- Responding to a sole divorce application
- Additional arrangements arising from divorce
- High net worth divorce
How our specialist divorce solicitors can help
If you have made the decision that your relationship has irretrievably broken down, our dedicated team of divorce solicitors are here to listen and talk through your next steps, explaining the process of getting a divorce and helping you choose the most appropriate way forward according to your individual circumstances.
We know how emotionally challenging this time can be, which is why we aim to be available as and when you need us: for legal advice, support and practical assistance through the divorce process.
Whether you’ve been married for five years or twenty-five, the breakdown of a relationship is rarely easy. However, by gaining specialist advice at an early stage, you can ensure a smooth process that doesn’t drag on, allowing you to move forward and focus on the future.
Frequently asked questions about divorce
Can I legally divorce my partner?
In English law, the only ground for divorce, is that the relationship has irretrievably broken down. Since the change in the law on 6 April 2022, the Court no longer requires parties to give a reason as to why the marriage has irretrievably broken down in a divorce application form and all divorces are therefore now issued on a “no-fault” basis.
An uncontested divorce takes a minimum of 26 weeks to complete under the new “no-fault” procedure. This could be longer depending on how long it takes to finalise the financial settlement on divorce. It is usually not advisable to finalise the divorce until financial matters have been resolved and all financial claims you have against each other have been dismissed.
We will also discuss with you any other repercussions concerned with divorce, such as those of a religious nature. It may be the case, for example, that a deed of separation would better suit you if you do not wish to divorce immediately and we can of course discuss with you if you feel this may be a more appropriate option in your circumstances.
Will I have to go to court for my divorce?
No, not necessarily. Depending on your circumstances, you may be able to save yourself the time and costs involved with court. If you are able to communicate and cooperate with your ex-partner we will actively encourage you to resolve issues outside of court through a method of Alternative Dispute Resolution.
However, if your dispute has already escalated beyond the point of cooperation and this is not possible, court may be necessary. While we will do all in our power to prevent this, our priority is to achieve an outcome that is fair and reflective of your needs. Should you need representation to secure this, you can rest assured that we have the skill and experience necessary to protect your interests through the divorce process.
When you instruct one of our dedicated divorce solicitors, we will utilise our first appointment to gain an understanding of your unique situation and determine the best possible approach in achieving resolution.
What is Alternative Dispute Resolution?
Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) is an umbrella term used to describe the various approaches used to help settle disputes outside of court, therefore saving a great deal of time as well as costs for those involved.
Mediation
One form of ADR is mediation, which involves both parties coming together with a trained, impartial mediator to work towards an agreement. During mediation, both you and your ex-partner will be able to voice your concerns and express your opinions, working together to understand each other’s requirements in order to reach a suitable conclusion.
This method can be particularly beneficial for couples who have children, as it allows both parents to work together productively to find a solution in a calm environment, reducing the tension in the future.
Collaborative Law
Alternatively, you may opt for the collaborative approach. Collaborative Law is another form of ADR which involves negotiation between both parties along with their respective solicitors. Before the process begins, an agreement is signed by all parties to state that they will be completely committed to doing everything possible to resolve issues outside of court. Next, all committed parties will sit down to discuss the issues at hand in a calm and productive manner.
Our expertly trained divorce solicitors have a proven track record of assisting separating couples to reach an agreement through collaborative law. This approach can save considerable costs avoiding ongoing correspondence, instead resolving all issues around the table whilst benefiting from support and legal advice all the way. It has an extremely high success rate and usually keeps matters much more amicable than any other approach.
Find out more information on Alternative Dispute Resolution here.
How long will the divorce process take?
The length of time taken in the divorce process varies greatly and depends on certain key factors; notably your financial situation, both parties’ ability to cooperate and whether arrangements for children must be made. Alternative Dispute Resolution will certainly help matters advance faster, as court hearings tend to delay the process. Irrespective of the approach you use, our divorce solicitors will always provide you with a rough estimation of time-scales at the earliest opportunity, so you know what to expect.
Where possible, we will attempt to reduce the time involved in your divorce to allow you to move forward; however, our goal will always be to secure the right outcome for you - no matter how long it takes.
Contact our divorce solicitors in Stafford and Rugeley
Our friendly local divorce solicitors are waiting to help, so please don’t hesitate to get in touch to discuss your situation.
For tailored legal advice on divorce, please get in touch with our Staffordshire solicitors in Stafford and Rugeley.
