Divorce

linda_chan

As I am getting divorce, can you please write me where to get papers to submit and then what is procedure. I think mine should be very streightforward and amicable. But I have to deal with papers and I don't know where to start from. Thank you.

Kimitatsu

You can get a divorce kit from the likes of WH Smith or Amazon, or alternatively you can check out this site which does it online: http://www.divorce-online.co.uk/services/diy_divorce/divorce.asp

But to be honest my advice is get a solicitor! You can get them on a fixed rate service which will include all of the serving of papers etc. Whilst it may be amicable now, lots can change very quickly, and you may need their advice. In some cases it also stops things disintegrating quickly because they know they have to go through a solicitor first.

Good luck!

Philippa36

You can also get the papers from the court. They are unable to give you any advice about how to fill them in though.

I did my own divorce after a solicitor told me it would cost upwards of £1,000+. It was very straightforward but there was no property involved or childcare issues.

Divorce Procedure

Becles

You can get the forms from the court office for free. Court staff can help you fill them in if you get stuck, but they can't offer advice on the legal bits.

Make sure you get a Financial Consent Order (sometimes called a Clean Break Order) as well as the divorce. This document means your finances are no longer linked, and neither party can ever claim on the others finances again.

I didn't get one, then had to fight off a claim from my ex after my house value rose considerably, and he wanted me to sell and give him half the equity.

eira

a)Start with a copy of 'Which Guide to Divorce'
b)Staff at the local courts won't give legal advice but they will make sure you have the right forms. You can ask for a private interview room when you go to pick up the papers if you need advice. Staff are reliable and helpful.
c)BEFORE YOU DO ANYTHING ELSE CHECK THE JOINT FINANCES IN DETAIL.CANCEL/SUSPEND ALL JOINT CREDIT CARDS-THIS APPLIES ESPECIALLY IF THERE ARE CHILDREN INVOLVED.
d)CHECK PENSION PLANS/MORTGAGES in detail. If you get stuck use a financial advisor to help you-cheaper and more reliable at checking finances than solicitors.
e) Work out the realities of living on your own/with one salary etc

Whatever you do, do not go near a solicitor until you have checked the above yourself and see if you really need to use a solicitor. They charge around £150 an hour and aren't renowned for their public spirit- you need to make sure that you maximise the value of any time they grant you by knowing your rights and what you want/need.
Local Law Centres or the CAB may be able to help if the issues are fairly straightforward.

Good luck