Family Law Services - Further Information
DIVORCE
For many people, the financial cost of a divorce is a real concern. However, we recognise that the actual mechanics of a divorce are fairly straightforward, and many people want to conduct their own proceedings to save cost. If you are one of these people then our online service will allow you to conduct your own proceedings, at your own pace and at less cost than using our bespoke face to face service.
Our online service allows you to take charge of your own divorce, with the added benefit of having all your documents checked by us before you send them to court. You may be “flying solo” but you know we are in the background supporting you.
The secure web pages give you fast and easy access to legal documents which are created as you fill in the questionnaire, which are specifically tailored to each document. Guidance notes are available for each document. When you document have been created it is securely submitted to us. One of our specialist family lawyers will then review and check your document and we can edit it if necessary, at no extra cost to you. The document is then returned to you, for you to print off and action.
This service will be most suited to couples who agree there should be a divorce, and where the proceedings are unlikely to be contested. The service provides all the documents you will need to issue your divorce petition and ultimately obtain your Decree Absolute which dissolves the marriage. You can also obtain a Change of Name Deed if you wish to change your name.
CHILDREN
When spouses agree about the arrangements for any children of the family or marriage then this agreement must be set out in a document called a Statement of Arrangements, available in our documents package. If you think there might be problems with arrangements for any children then you may need specific advice from us, tailored to your specific circumstances.
FINANCIAL MATTERS
It is important to remember that a Decree Absolute only dissolves a marriage and does not end the financial claims that spouses have against each other. These financial claims should be considered alongside the divorce process itself. You should not obtain your Decree Absolute unless you and your spouse have agreed how to deal with financial matters. If you have reached an agreement then that agreement should be recorded in a document called a Consent Order, and that Order must be approved and sealed by the court for it to be binding upon you and your spouse. If such an Order is not obtained, your former spouse could be entitled to a financial settlement from you, at any time after the divorce is concluded. Each case is different and specific advice would need to be given. Contact us and we will advise you further as to what is required, and the likely cost.
WILLS
When you are separating or divorcing it is vital that you make a Will, or review your existing Will to make sure it still reflects your wishes. You can use our online Wills service, or you can request specific advice about your situation.
LEGAL AID
We hold a Legal Aid contract but cannot offer legal aid for our online services. For divorce purposes, the type of legal aid available is called Legal Help. If you think you may be eligible for Legal Help please contact us by contacting m.young@waldrons.co.uk and we will assess your eligibility.
You can also click here to check your eligibility yourself.