1. Decide whether divorce is the right first step

In England and Wales, divorce is now a “no-fault” process. You do not need to prove that your spouse has behaved badly or that the marriage has irretrievably broken down because of adultery, unreasonable behaviour or separation.

One or both spouses can apply for a divorce, and there is no need for both parties to agree to the marriage ending.

However, before starting the application, it is sensible to think about the wider picture. Divorce legally ends the marriage, but it does not automatically resolve financial arrangements or decide where children will live.

2. Pull together key information including documents related to your finances

Before making an application, gather the key information you will need. This includes your marriage certificate, details of your spouse and information about any children.

More importantly, start collecting documents relating to your finances. Think about your property, mortgages, savings, pensions, investments, businesses, debts and income.

This can feel intrusive, particularly if you have never dealt with the family finances yourself. But having a clear picture of the matrimonial finances early on can make the next stages considerably easier.

3. Consider the practicalities of shared parenting and how this may look

In most cases you do not need a solicitor or court to decide matters surrounding your children.  It is important for you to jointly discuss practical arrangements:  where the children will live, how they will spend time with each parent, school arrangements, holidays and important occasions.

How you will deal with breaking the news to them isn’t something you have to think about immediately.

4. Think carefully about the finances

This is often the most important part of the process — and the area where people can make costly mistakes by moving too quickly.

The divorce application itself does not divide your assets. Financial arrangements need to be dealt with separately.

You may need advice about the family home, maintenance, pensions and other assets. In many cases, a solicitor will help you obtain financial disclosure from both parties before advising on what would represent a fair settlement.

Do not assume that because an asset is held in one person’s sole name, it automatically belongs to that person following divorce. Equally, do not assume that everything will simply be divided 50/50.

5. Start the divorce application

The divorce application is generally made online. Once issued, the application is sent to your spouse, who will normally need to acknowledge it.

There is then a minimum period before the divorce can progress to the conditional order, followed by a further waiting period before the final order can formally end the marriage.

This means divorce is not an overnight process. The waiting periods can actually provide useful breathing space to deal with the financial and practical issues that accompany the end of a marriage.

Your divorce checklist

Before you begin, consider:

• Do I have my marriage certificate and the necessary personal details?
• Do I understand my financial position, including property, pensions, savings and debts?
• Have I considered immediate arrangements for the children?
• Do I need advice about financial support or the family home?
• Have I considered whether mediation or another form of dispute resolution could help?
• Have I taken legal advice before agreeing to a significant financial arrangement?

Finally, remember that starting divorce proceedings does not mean you have to resolve everything on the same day. A good solicitor should help you understand the process, identify the decisions that need to be made and, importantly, distinguish between what needs immediate attention and what can wait.

Divorce is both a legal process and a major life change. Getting the right advice at the beginning can help you protect your position, avoid unnecessary conflict and move towards the next chapter with greater certainty.

This article was brought to you by Kidd Rapinet’s family solicitors. You can book an appointment with any of the family lawyers across our other offices in Aylesbury, Canary Wharf, Farnham, High Wycombe, Maidenhead or Slough, using the form provided.  Please use the links provided to find more information on divorce or separation, child arrangements and other areas of family law.

These materials and content have been prepared for the benefit of their viewers/readers. They are intended for marketing purposes only and are of a general nature and do not constitute legal advice applicable to any particular facts or circumstances. Kidd Rapinet LLP and/or the author(s) accept no duty of care, responsibility or liability for any loss or damage which you or any third party may suffer as a result of any reliance or use by you or them of these marketing materials and content, except to the extent it is not legally possible to exclude such liability. If you require legal advice on your own situation, please contact us so we can discuss how we may assist.

The post How do I begin the divorce process appeared first on Kidd Rapinet.

In this role, you will provide vital support across a diverse range of family law matters, working alongside fee earners handling both contested and non-contested proceedings. This position offers excellent exposure to private family law, with clear progression toward handling increasingly independent tasks and challenging fee-earning casework. Full training will be provided by an existing team member.

Key Responsibilities

• Case Preparation & Court Bundling: Collate, redact, and index Court bundles, witness statements, and trial documentation in strict compliance with Family Court directions and deadlines.
• Court Attendance: Attend hearings in person and remotely alongside fee earners or Counsel, taking comprehensive, accurate formal notes and assisting with client management.
• Client & Third-Party Liaison: Act as a professional point of contact for clients, opposing solicitors, barristers’ chambers, and expert witnesses via telephone, email, and in-person meetings.
• Legal Administration & Compliance: Manage electronic and physical file organization, open/close matters, complete compliance checks, and support the team with routine billing and financial administration.
• Legal Research & Drafting: Conduct targeted legal research and prepare drafts of standard correspondence, forms, and basic pleadings.

About You

• Strong organizational skills with the ability to prioritize competing deadlines under pressure.
• High attention to detail and accuracy in written work.
• Professional, empathetic communication skills suited to sensitive family law scenarios.
• Solid IT literacy, including good typing skills and familiarity with digital dictation and legal practice management software.
• Punctual, dependable, and eager to learn.

Full time, in person position, Monday to Friday, High Wycombe, free on-site parking.

To apply, please send a full CV and covering letter to Jan Duffy jduffy@kiddrapinet.co.uk

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Our High Wycombe office is seeking a capable Conveyancing Solicitor to join our dynamic residential and commercial conveyancing team.

About the Role:
The successful candidate will be responsible for managing a varied caseload of property transactions from instruction through to completion.

Key Responsibilities:

• Handling all aspects of conveyancing transactions
• Managing files independently from inception to post-completion
• Drafting, reviewing, and negotiating legal documents and contracts
• Conducting legal research and ensuring compliance with relevant property laws and regulations

• Liaising with clients, estate agents, lenders, solicitors, and other third parties
• Providing clear and practical legal advice to clients
• Maintaining accurate case records and ensuring deadlines are met
• Building and maintaining strong client relationships

Requirements:

• Qualified Solicitor with a valid practising certificate
• Minimum 1.5 year PQE and experience in residential and commercial conveyancing
• Strong knowledge of property law, conveyancing procedures, and legal regulations
• Ability to manage a caseload efficiently and work independently
• Excellent communication, organisational, and interpersonal skills
• Strong attention to detail and analytical ability
• Proficient in legal drafting and legal research

What We Offer:

• Supportive and professional working environment
• Opportunity for career progression
• Exposure to a broad range of property matters
• Competitive salary based on experience

How to Apply:

Please submit your CV and a brief cover letter outlining your interest in the role to jduffy@kiddrapinet.co.uk

Job Type: Full-time, Permanent

Work Location: In person, High Wycombe[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]

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If you are interested in working for a legal firm, hold passes in both GCSE Maths and English Language, and have an eye for detail please send a CV and covering letter to  employ@kiddrapinet.co.uk

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Firstly, we would like to say that you do not have to navigate this alone.  This is not just about physical violence, often control can be a pattern of behaviour designed to isolate, intimidate or control another person. It might include monitoring your movements, controlling finances, restricting contact with family and friends, making threats about the children, or leaving you feeling as though every decision you make has to be approved by someone else.

You do have options when it comes to coercive behaviour from your partner

One of the most damaging effects of coercive control is that it can make people believe they have no options. That is simply not true.

Seeking legal advice does not commit you to starting divorce proceedings or ending a relationship immediately. Often, the first meeting is simply an opportunity to understand your rights, discuss your concerns in complete confidence, and explore what a safe plan could look like. There is no judgement, no pressure and no expectation that you have all the answers.

Safety – arranging legal meetings and communications to protect privacy

For many people, safety is the first priority. We understand that every situation is different. We will work with you to ensure meetings can be arranged in ways that minimise risk, communication methods can be adapted to suit your circumstances, and careful consideration will always be given to protecting your privacy. If there are immediate concerns for your safety or that of your children, there are legal protections available that we can discuss with you, where appropriate, and put in place quickly.

I’m worried about my children with a coercive partner if I want to leave

Children are often at the heart of these situations. Parents frequently worry that speaking to a solicitor will make matters worse or lead to conflict. In reality, the law places the welfare of children at the centre of every decision. Our role is to help protect both you and your children while guiding you through the legal process as calmly and safely as possible.

Will I be left without any money leaving a coercive partner?

Financial concerns are another common reason people feel trapped. If your partner controls the household finances, you may wonder how you could possibly afford to leave. The law recognises that financial control can form part of coercive behaviour, and there are legal processes that can help ensure financial matters are dealt with fairly during separation or divorce. Understanding your legal position is often the first step towards regaining independence.

Taking the first step to leave a coercive partner

Perhaps the biggest hurdle is making that first call. Many people tell us they delayed seeking advice because they worried they would not be believed or thought their situation was “not serious enough”. The reality is that coercive control can be deeply harmful, even where there has never been physical violence.

No one should feel frightened to ask questions about their future. No one should feel they have to remain in a relationship because they fear the legal process more than their current situation.

We understand that behind every legal matter is a person who may be frightened, uncertain and overwhelmed. Our role is not simply to advise on the law. It is to listen, to provide clear and compassionate guidance, and to help you make informed decisions at a pace that feels right for you.

Taking the first step can feel overwhelming, but it can also be the beginning of reclaiming your independence. Whatever your circumstances, you deserve to feel safe, to be heard, and to know that support is available. Reaching out for confidential legal advice is not a sign of weakness—it is often the first step towards a safer future.

Although general information can be helpful, every family situation is unique. Obtaining tailored legal advice at an early stage can help people understand their position, avoid common mistakes, and make informed decisions during an already difficult time.

This article was brought to you by Kidd Rapinet’s family solicitors. You can book an appointment with any of the family lawyers across our other offices in Aylesbury, Canary Wharf, Farnham, High Wycombe, Maidenhead or Slough, using the form provided.  Please use the links provided to find more information on divorce or separation, child arrangements and other areas of family law.

These materials and content have been prepared for the benefit of their viewers/readers. They are intended for marketing purposes only and are of a general nature and do not constitute legal advice applicable to any particular facts or circumstances. Kidd Rapinet LLP and/or the author(s) accept no duty of care, responsibility or liability for any loss or damage which you or any third party may suffer as a result of any reliance or use by you or them of these marketing materials and content, except to the extent it is not legally possible to exclude such liability. If you require legal advice on your own situation, please contact us so we can discuss how we may assist.

The post You do not have to face coercive control alone appeared first on Kidd Rapinet.

Since the introduction of the no-fault divorce system in England and Wales in April 2022, it is no longer possible for one spouse to prevent the other from obtaining a divorce simply because they disagree with the decision.

How does no-fault divorce work?

Under the current law, either one spouse can apply for a divorce on their own, or the couple can make a joint application.

Rather than having to prove that one person was at fault, the applicant simply confirms that the marriage has irretrievably broken down. The court accepts this statement without requiring evidence of unreasonable behaviour, adultery or lengthy periods of separation.

This has helped make the divorce process less confrontational and allows couples to focus on resolving practical matters, such as finances and arrangements for any children.

What if my spouse doesn’t respond to divorce papers?

It is understandable to worry if your spouse ignores the paperwork or refuses to acknowledge the divorce application.

In many cases, this will not prevent the divorce from progressing.

There are procedures available to deal with situations where documents have not been acknowledged or where a spouse is deliberately refusing to engage with the process. The court has powers to ensure that an application can continue where appropriate, provided the necessary legal requirements have been met.

While a lack of cooperation can sometimes result in delays, it does not usually prevent the divorce itself from going ahead.

Can my spouse stop the divorce?

One of the biggest changes introduced by no-fault divorce is that it is no longer possible to defend a divorce simply because one person does not want the marriage to end.

There are only very limited circumstances in which a divorce application may be challenged, such as questions over whether the court has jurisdiction or whether the marriage itself is legally valid. These situations are uncommon.

For the vast majority of couples, one person’s refusal to agree with the divorce will not stop the legal process.

What about agreeing finances with divorce?

Although a spouse cannot usually prevent the divorce itself, disagreements often arise when it comes to finances.

Reaching an agreement about the family home, savings, pensions and other assets can sometimes take longer than obtaining the divorce.

If an agreement cannot be reached through negotiation or mediation, the court can be asked to determine how assets should be divided.

It is also important to remember that finalising the divorce does not automatically resolve financial claims between spouses. To achieve legal certainty, many couples will need a financial order approved by the court.

What happens where children are involved in divorce?

Where children are involved, parents do not need to wait until every childcare arrangement has been agreed before applying for a divorce.

However, it is often beneficial to work together to establish practical arrangements that are in the children’s best interests. Many families are able to reach agreements through discussion or mediation, while others may require legal assistance if disputes arise.

The court’s primary consideration will always be the welfare of the children.

Seeking legal advice

Even where one spouse is unwilling to cooperate, it is usually possible to move forward with the divorce.

Every family’s circumstances are different, and while the legal process has become more straightforward under the no-fault system, issues relating to finances, property and children can still be complex.

Seeking advice from an experienced family solicitor at an early stage can help you understand your options, minimise unnecessary delays and ensure that your interests are protected throughout the process.

If you are considering divorce and are unsure where you stand, obtaining specialist legal advice can provide the clarity and reassurance you need to take the next step with confidence.

Although general information can be helpful, every family situation is unique. Obtaining tailored legal advice at an early stage can help people understand their position, avoid common mistakes, and make informed decisions during an already difficult time.

This article was brought to you by Kidd Rapinet’s family solicitors. You can book an appointment with any of the family lawyers across our other offices in Aylesbury, Canary Wharf, Farnham, High Wycombe, Maidenhead or Slough, using the form provided.  Please use the links provided to find more information on divorce or separation, child arrangements and other areas of family law.

These materials and content have been prepared for the benefit of their viewers/readers. They are intended for marketing purposes only and are of a general nature and do not constitute legal advice applicable to any particular facts or circumstances. Kidd Rapinet LLP and/or the author(s) accept no duty of care, responsibility or liability for any loss or damage which you or any third party may suffer as a result of any reliance or use by you or them of these marketing materials and content, except to the extent it is not legally possible to exclude such liability. If you require legal advice on your own situation, please contact us so we can discuss how we may assist.

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Our Managing Partner, Gurvinder Sehra, was up with the lark on Saturday 4th July 2026 to cheer on all taking part and to present the winners with their trophies.  Very well done to everyone who took part – we look forward to supporting the event in 2027.

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