The Real Cost of Divorce

19 May 2012

Experts are predicting that the financial cost of divorce is set to double in 2011 - and that this will lead to a further drop in divorce rates which are already at a 30-year low.

Sadly, divorce is often unavoidable and while it's all-too-easy to focus on the finances, are people beginning to lose sight of the real emotional price as families separate?

Divorce has a huge impact on the entire family, growing more damaging the less carefully a case is handled. Separating partners face a great deal of stress and hurt, often not realising the effect their actions are having on the rest of their family, especially when children are involved.

Youngsters are usually just as confused as their parents are during this difficult time and need plenty of reassurance. Parenting skills can also change dramatically so people may need to learn how to parent effectively without the support of their partner always being there.

In order to help protect children during divorce and to prevent relationships from completely breaking down it is vital that issues are resolved quickly and sensitively.

For many separation is a last resort, when all other methods of reconciliation have failed, so couples want, and need, their legal affairs in order and papers finalised as soon as possible so they can start to move on.

However, many couples are often unsure of where to turn when faced with divorce, especially when expensive legal bills are not an option, proceedings can then become long and drawn out. Lengthy divorces do not benefit anyone so it is important that both parties seek impartial legal advice sooner rather than later.

Families worried about how their family is being affected by divorce, or spiralling divorce costs, should always seek professional advice. There is plenty of free advice available on a range of family matters, including divorce, from organisations such as the Citizens Advice Bureau and Community Legal Advice.

Specialist solicitors can also advise you on your rights and help you find the right options to help you resolve your problems, and if you require it representation in court.  

Although divorce figures in the UK fell to its lowest since 1975 in April 2010, we still hold one of the highest figures in the world, with more than one in a 100 marriages ending in divorce - meaning divorce is still a very real issue. 

Northumberland residents who are eligible for Legal Aid and worried about divorce or other family issues can contact the Family Law Team at DAWN Advice for free and independent advice on 01670 785 512.