Non-confrontational Divorce is Possible
A divorce solicitor in London doesn’t only help with the legal paperwork needed to officially end the marriage contract. They can also advise on mediation services to help the spouses separate as amicably as possible.
The divorce petition is the legal aspect of marriage dissolution. Separate to this, the couple will also need to agree on financial and childcare arrangements, if applicable. Mediation can help with this. For mediation to work, it’s helpful for each partner to get clear about what they want from the separation and then focus on the areas of disagreement between them. A divorce solicitor in London, such as Saracens Solicitors, can point the couple towards an experienced mediator.
Both parties will need to fill out financial disclosure forms, so their financial position is clear. Any attempt to hide assets or downplay wealth at this stage could backfire. If the concealment is discovered at a later date, any agreement based on the incorrect information will be null and void and the partners could end up in court.
A mediator isn’t there to offer legal advice, but to hear both sides and help the couple to reach agreement. They also supply practical information about next steps.
If mediation is successful, the mediator will write up a memorandum of understanding. This shows what agreements were reached. The couple can take this to their divorce solicitor in London. If the memorandum relates to financial or physical assets, the divorce solicitor in London can use it to draw up a consent order. This means that, if one party doesn’t stick to the agreement, the other can take them to court. The consent order has to be approved by a judge first for it to be binding.
If mediation doesn’t work, a divorce solicitor in London is the next port of call. Many family law solicitors adhere to Resolution’s code of practice. This means that they aim to reach an agreement that listens to the concerns of everyone involved in the divorce (including children and other family members), without blame or judgement. This is a gentle next step after mediation that still offers a space for the partners to reach agreement in a non-confrontational way.
