How to find the best solicitor for your needs

If you are aiming to start a divorce or respond to a petition filed by your husband or wife - a specialist Mountain Ash family and divorce lawyer is an essential legal advisor in protecting your interests. A Mountain Ash solicitor will be able to ensure that the divorce process is dealt with as skilfully and sympathetically as they can, particularly if there are kids. A lawyers fees will usually run from around £180 up to around £280 (hourly rate), perhaps more in high asset cases. On occasion Mountain Ash firms will help clients on a fixed quote arrangement.

It would be prudent to shop around to compare solicitors quotes as possible. Click to compare fees

Beginning a divorce

UK Courts only deal with a petition for divorce if one of five facts can be demonstrated which include; 5 years separation (where no consent exists).

How to respond to the divorce petition

Getting advice from a specialist solicitor at an early stage is highly recommended. Discussing your circumstances with a professional will help you to understand your options and prepare yourself for the process. Professional advice will also help to ensure that your interests are protected.

Are the contents of the petition correct?

It is vital that you check the petition's contents, regardless of whether it is a draft or otherwise. In addition to the personal details listed in the petition, the "Statements of Case" should be reviewed thoroughly. If you disagree with something in the petition, you can notify your spouse's lawyer of the correction, or you can "defend" the petition by filing an Answer and Cross-Petition.

What does the respondent need to do?

The respondent will receive an Acknowledge of Service document to fill out and return to the Court. This document notifies the Court of the respondent's receipt and acceptance of the petition. You can opt to defend the case or ask for the petition to be corrected, if you do not agree with the reasons given for the divorce.

Divorce Frequently Asked Questions

Can you get a divorce in a Civil Partnership?

The dissolution process is similar to a divorce, but adultery cannot be cited as a reason for the legal separation. Like the decree nisi and decree absolute awarded in a divorce, a civil partnership is dissolved with first a "conditional order", and then a "final order" six months later.

What happens if one (or both) of us have assets overseas?

If an informal agreement cannot be reached, a UK Court decision can be very difficult to enforce in some countries, so the impact of this on foreign assets should be considered from the outset. Obtaining a divorce in another jurisdiction may be a more suitable choice.

Does it matter who starts the divorce process ?

No, this has no bearing on the process.

Who should I notify about the divorce ?

It varies on your circumstances, e.g. employers, pensions etc.