Going through a divorce can often be a very difficult time, filled with complicated emotions and upheaval. This does not mean that the mundane practicalities of the legal divorce process have to be difficult, however.

In recent years, the divorce procedure has been made more straightforward and less antagonistic by the introduction of No Fault Divorce in 2022, and we’ve put together these 5 tips intended to help make your divorce process as simple as possible.

1.     Stay respectful when communicating with your spouse

When dealing with the breakdown of a relationship, emotions are bound to run high at times. But staying civil and respectful whenever you are communicating with your spouse can make a huge difference in smoothing the divorce process.

Respectful communication sets a tone for your interactions, and hopefully your spouse will reciprocate, making the situation feel less contentious.

Of course, the circumstances of each relationship will be different and doing this may be easier or harder depending on how things stand between you. Emotional support from friends, family, or professional counsellors can help with letting go of any bitterness or resentment you may feel.

2.     Prepare relevant information beforehand

Alongside the legal divorce, will be the need to separate matrimonial assets and finances, such as the family home, joint bank accounts, and other property or possessions. If you can collect together all of the financial information needed to resolve matters as soon as possible, this can make the process much more straightforward.

It will also give you an idea of what a fair, reasonable financial settlement may look like so that you can plan ahead for your future.

Relevant information could include:

  • Payslips
  • An overview of your monthly outgoings
  • Bank statements
  • Pension documentation
  • Investment documentation
  • Mortgage statements
  • Credit card statements

For a full picture of what you may need, it is best to discuss this with your solicitor at the earliest opportunity.

3.     Be open to compromise

Untangling two lives that have been intertwined over a number of years will inevitably involve compromise. It is a central part of the divorce process. The courts expect couples going through a divorce to resolve as much as they can through negotiation and, if that fails, a court hearing will not be set until mediation has been attempted (except in certain circumstances, for example where there has been domestic abuse in the relationship).

This means that being inflexible and unwilling to compromise is certain to make the process slower and more complicated. In addition, being able to resolve issues early on, through negotiation or mediation, is much more cost-effective than requiring the court to make a decision on it.

4.     Keep the big picture in mind

Connected to the tip above is a need to keep your overall aims and long-term plans in mind. With acrimonious divorces especially, it can be easy to get caught up in the small details; the perceived slights, bitterness, and the disagreements ‘on principle’. It is perfectly understandable, but it can derail the divorce process and potentially make it more difficult to achieve the settlement you need for your long-term hopes.

By planning ahead, and continually looking at what comes after the divorce, you can focus on what is truly important to you.

If you have children, it is crucial that you consider the effects any decisions or ongoing disputes might have on them. Keeping their best interests in mind is always a good guide for the decisions you make. And if the court is required to make decisions on your divorce proceedings, the best interests of your children will be their primary consideration as well.

5.     Instruct legal advisers early, and make sure they are right for you

Instructing solicitors early in the process can be extremely beneficial.

Even if your divorce is amicable, early legal advice allows you to take useful steps right from the outset to simplify the process.

From a technical point of view, it is important that you choose solicitors that specialise in divorce, so they have the expertise necessary to help you effectively. However, the process will also be much simpler if you trust and connect with the solicitors you instruct. Divorce is a deeply personal event, so feeling comfortable with your solicitor will make a big difference.

How Ison Harrison can help

At Ison Harrison, our experienced divorce and family lawyers can help you with all aspects of a divorce, providing supportive, straightforward advice and guidance at an unsettling time.

If you would like to discuss your situation, please do not hesitate to get in touch.