Good Divorce Week 2020: steps to achieving a ‘good’ divorce

To those facing a painful separation, the concept of having a ‘good’ divorce can seem out of touch with the reality of their situation but the idea is to reduce conflict and make the process as straightforward, and painless, as possible. In this article we look at how you can have a good divorce and how Steele Raymond’s expert divorce solicitors can help you to achieve this.

How can I have a good divorce?

First of all, make sure that obtaining a divorce is the right thing for you. Deciding that you want to divorce is never an easy decision, so take your time and think it through. The particular circumstances in your marriage, including whether the idea of divorce, and the reasons for it, is being initiated by you or your spouse, will certainly have a bearing on your options and decision making. If you decide that you would like to try and save your marriage there are other non-lawyer specialists and professional bodies who may be able to help you. In other circumstances, you can consider how best to deal with the divorce.

Divorce is right for me, what should I consider?

As an individual, you have the right to decide who you want to represent you. Therefore, we advise that you research law firms and their specialist divorce lawyers in order to understand which firm and which lawyer feels like the best fit for you. Many firms have detailed information on their websites containing information about their team, experience and specialisms and this may assist you in making your decision.

At Steele Raymond, we consider that a first meeting between you and a family law specialist is fundamental not only for you to get to know your prospective lawyer and the way they work, but to also understand the first steps on the divorce journey. It is also an opportunity for the lawyer to become informed about the unique circumstances of your marriage and for you to speak freely and confidentially about very personal topics and receive guidance and advice. Talk to our divorce solicitors >

How to prepare for divorce

Going through a divorce can be emotionally challenging and draining at times. You will often have to reflect upon the reasons for getting divorced and the legal options and processes ahead. This can become a minefield and it is important for the pacing and structure of your case to suit your needs and decision making.

Divorce is also naturally difficult for children to understand. Prepare for the possibility of emotional reactions and be ready to support them and answer their questions, so far as possible, in a way which fully involves both you and your spouse as parents. You can read more about child law here >

Remember that a divorce is not just a family separation and division of two people but also of the family income, assets and liabilities. It is very often the case that the settlement of the financial resources requires the most attention and time in the course of a divorce.

Your solicitors will do their best to represent you and your best interests. This will include advising you on the law in relation to financial settlements, the legal process and requirements relating to this and how a fair and just outcome can be achieved. These topics can be measured by you and your solicitor against your goals and against the backdrop of the law as it stands in relation to financial settlement arrangements.

Consider mediation

Family mediation is a form of alternative dispute resolution and allows you to resolve issues arising during a divorce without going to Court. These issues are typically to do with financial settlement arrangements or in relation to arrangements for the children if those are in dispute.

Mediation allows you to discuss your options and points of view in a safe and controlled environment. The mediator’s role is to help you navigate the legal landscape in a neutral manner and to ultimately make proposals and come to compromises with your spouse.

Mediation is often considered by participants to be more flexible as it lets you decide the resolution that works best for you and your spouse in most cases.

Although mediation isn’t for everyone you should consider whether it would be helpful in your situation. Bear in mind that there is a procedural requirement in most cases for you to actively consider alternative methods of resolution – including mediation – before committing to a formal Court application in relation to disputed matters concerning your children or financial settlement.  You can always discuss this with your solicitor, and they will be able to advise you.

Why choose Steele Raymond?

Our Family team is consistently recognised by clients, fellow professionals and legal publications for their expertise and high levels of client care. We have a wealth of experience in every aspect of family law including divorce proceedings, child arrangements and financial settlements. We will carefully guide you through the divorce process and related financial and children arrangements as appropriate and work with you to achieve outcomes.

We recognise that appointing a solicitor to represent you following a breakdown in your marriage is sometimes an unwanted or very difficult step to take. For this reason, we are committed to offering complete cost transparency. We are happy to provide you with our hourly rates and a fee estimate before you appoint us and, if you decide that you want us to represent you, we will regularly update you in relation to costs as we progress your case.

In addition, our team also includes two qualified mediators, Michelle Bettell and Lindsay Halliwell, who are able to help you without necessarily going to Court. Learn more about the mediation process >

We are honoured that our clients frequently leave us feedback on completion of their matters. Here are a few of the lovely things our clients have said about us:

“I am sure many of your clients would feel the same way about you, your attention to detail, professionalism, sympathy towards clients … I would strongly recommend you to other people.”

“I’m so happy to have finally got the divorce settlement over the line. Thank you for taking on my case and for your professionalism in guiding me through it.”

Contact Us

To speak to us about your divorce or any other family law matters, please contact Daniel Sanders or a member of our family team on 01202 983999 or enquire below.