So, you’ve decided to separate and get a divorce? Many people think they know what a divorce entails but sadly, it can be more complicated than you expect. Even when you’re on amicable terms with your spouse, the process of a divorce is still stressful.

The more you know about the process and what to expect, the easier it can be. Take a look at what you can expect when you file for divorce.

It Takes a Long Time

Everyone involved in a divorce needs to know that the couple divorcing are sure about the decision they’re making. Getting a divorce is serious and it’s not a decision anyone should make lightly. The divorce process can take up to eighteen months to finalise.

If you have children, the process is longer because you’ll need to discuss custody and come to an arrangement so try to remain calm. You should be prepared for the long haul and understand it can be a stressful and emotional time.

Get a Good Solicitor

A good solicitor will not only take care of the process for you but offer you wise advice throughout too. You won’t have to worry about all the specifics of paperwork, like notary public vs justice of the peace for signing documents. Your solicitor will have everything under control and will work to make the process as quick and as painless as possible.

A good solicitor will make themselves available to you when you need them. It’s common to have questions that only a solicitor can ask so you should be able to email your solicitor and receive a quick response.

Stages of Divorce

Your divorce is most likely to happen in stages. While the process is happening, you’ll need to talk to your spouse about your living arrangements. You’ll need to come up with a solution, like moving out, that will end your marriage.

Once you’ve done that, your finances and assets will need to be divided and you’ll need to talk about child custody. These happen in stages because they can be overwhelming and dividing everything, including custody of your children, can make you feel scared about what the future has in store.

Family Mediation

It may be hard for you to trust someone else with your personal affairs at a time like this. However, family mediation aims to help you and your spouse reach fair and reasonable solutions. If you can do this, you may be able to keep your divorce out of court and keep costs down.

This is a favorable option in any divorce because neither partner wants to lose more money than necessary. It can also be easier on children for them to see their parents coming to amicable agreements. However, this isn’t always possible and there will always be times when divorce proceedings need to go to court because spouses aren’t able to communicate or can’t agree.

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