Christmas is a time of maximum stress in relationships, and all too often, unfortunately, leads to the beginning of the process of separation and divorce. In fact the first week in January is recognised by many law firms as their most busy period in the whole year for clients enquiring about divorce, or so says Sandra Meakins, a partner at Kidd Rapinet’s Farnham Office. “It’s a sad fact of life, but there it is. The key thing going forward is that people approach the process properly – regrettably that doesn’t happen for a great many people And that’s because of the growth of so-called ‘do it yourself divorce’”
Something called the Family Justice Review (an independent report commissioned by ministers to examine the case for reform of the family law system) recommended late last year that couples who are separating should be encouraged to carry out more divorces using “do-it-yourself” websites and for the process to just be dealt with administratively by the courts. However, this is not a development viewed with universal favour.
Sandra Meakins comments: “Whilst it may be suitable for some people, generally people ‘doing it themselves’ often do not understand the considerations that need to be taken into account such as wills, pension funds, tax liabilities or terms of property ownership. Professional advice from a qualified lawyer is essential.”
If you feel you may need advice, Kidd Rapinet can advise you on the latest law in this field. Call the contact for your local office for further information:
- Aylesbury: Edel McMahon (01296 432541)
- Farnham: Sandra Meakins (01252 713242)
- High Wycombe: Katie Banks (01494 535321)
- London: Richard Tymkiw (020 7024 8065)
- Maidenhead: Kathryn Coyle (01628 621301)
- Slough: Chris Comley (01753 532541)