• As the holiday season has now come to an end and the new year begins, individuals often take time to reflect upon their current circumstances, which may include considerations about relationships and those, which for one reason or another, should be brought to an end. Whilst it is recognised that such decisions are often difficult and the path ahead not straight forward or clear, it is important that early legal advice is sought to consider the best way forward.

    Statistics show that 455 online divorce applications were received by the court service over the Christmas period, including 13 on Christmas Day itself. Unknown to many, the online divorce process does not currently allow married couples to sever their financial ties from each other meaning that, even after they are divorced, their financial claims against each other will remain published. It is therefore important to obtain early legal advice even if you are intending to make use of the online divorce process.

    The breakdown of relationships can have wide ranging effects.  An individual may need to consider the financial implications, where they are going to live, the arrangements for their children and, if they are married, the process of divorce and the financing of day to day living expenses.

    For individuals who are cohabiting and are not married, it is a common misconception that if you lived with your partner for a long period of time or you have children together you are known as “common law spouses.” Sadly, there is no such thing.  A cohabiting couple does not have the same financial rights as a married couple when their relationship comes to an end.

    It is important to seek legal advice to find out what you are legally entitled to if your marriage or relationship comes to an end.  No two cases are the same and each individual case should be considered on its own merits.

    At Brachers our team of lawyers have a wealth of experience in dealing with all aspects of relationship breakdown and we are able to offer you advice and guidance in confidence and with sensitivity. There are a range of options available to you to deal with matters following the breakdown of your relationship including both court and non-court routes. Please contact a member of our Family and Divorce Team for further information and advice.

    This content is correct at time of publication

    Can we help?

    Take a look at our Family and Divorce page for useful information, resources, guidance, details of our team and how we may be able to help you

  • Get in touch

    Please fill out the below form or alternatively you can call us on 01622 690691

      By submitting an enquiry through 'get in touch' your data will only be used to contact you regarding your enquiry. If you subscribe to any of our newsletters, you can unsubscribe any time using the link in the email. Please view our privacy statement for more information