When a marriage comes to an end, it can be tough to know where to start in navigating the path ahead.
To help make life less complicated, SoGlos discusses the thorny issues of divorce with the family law team at Gloucestershire's WSP Solicitors.
Gathering together advice from WSP's key divorce lawyers Beth Evans, Louise Kelly and Lydia Hackett, we've rounded up their top 10 tips for helping to deal with divorce more smoothly.
Get solid legal advice early
At WSP Solicitors, the team offers an initial advice appointment at a reduced rate.
This is aimed at helping couples to understand the process, obligations, options available and potential issues that may arise - knowledge is power.
Choose the right process
Mediation, resolution together or the court route each have pros and cons that need to be carefully weighed up.
The team will help couples pick the method that best fits their relationship dynamics and
complexity.
Keep kids at the centre, not in the middle
If children are involved, it's important to protect their emotional safety.
During divorce proceedings, the team at WSP Solicitors stresses how important it is to avoid using children as messengers or sharing adult information with them.
Build emotional support outside the legal process
There's no doubt that going through divorce can take a heavy emotional toll.
WSP Solicitors recommends getting a therapist or joining a support group to help ease the strain. Alternatively, friends and family can be a good help in processing emotions, which in turn can help keep things on track.
Give yourself time and grace
Divorce is a highly emotional process, so it's crucial to be patient with yourself.
Having seen many couples go through the process, the team advises that it's important to recognise that healing won’t be immediate and it’s normal to feel overwhelmed. Giving yourself the grace to accept this bumpy part of your journey, can make things a little easier.
Prioritise calm, clear communication
Emotional arguments will slow everything down and increase stress, so it's good to be aware of this and keep it in mind before any crucial communications.
Try to keep discussions respectful and focused on the practical issues, to keep things moving forward.
Stay organised
Divorce and finances includes extensive disclosure, so it's a good idea to try and keep track of documents, emails, financial statements and agreements.
A
dedicated folder or digital system can make the entire process smoother.
Set boundaries and stick to them
Dealing with all of the processes and procedures can make divorce draining.
The WSP divorces teams says it's wise to limit interactions when needed and, for when you are sorting things out, to define communication rules in advance to protect your mental space.
Protect your financial foundation
Clarity reduces surprises, so get a clear picture of your ingoings and outgoings.
Gather documents, understand your assets and liabilities and create a realistic post-divorce budget that you'll be able to stick to.
Focus on long-term outcomes, not short-term wins
Trying to 'win' the divorce often leads to more conflict and the inability to negotiate a settlement.
It's best to aim for agreements that support your future stability and well-being.
