Relationship breakdowns and divorce can be an emotional time for you and your family. In the lead up to your first meeting with your family lawyer, it’s normal to feel nervous, anxious and upset. Family Solicitor Katharine Scoot from HRJ Foreman Laws Solicitors shares five top tips to help you prepare for your first meeting.

1. You don’t need to understand everything about the divorce process

We will guide you through the process and explain what will happen during your first meeting. It can be daunting meeting with your family solicitor for the first time but we’re here to make you feel comfortable, safe and you can talk to us.

2. Take care of the admin before you get there

There are a few things you can prepare beforehand to help you get the most out of your first meeting. Put aside any documents you’ll need including photographic ID and a recent utility bill with your current address on. Don’t worry if you don’t have every detail just yet, but the more you know, the more productive your first meeting will be.

It’s a good idea to bring along your marriage certificate and any legal documents from your partner/spouses’ solicitor if you have them. We will also ask for details of how we can contact your spouse / partner, when necessary. It’s also helpful to know any important key dates, for example, when did you begin living with your spouse or partner? When did you marry? What date did you separate? Provide details of any children (names, dates of birth and their current living arrangements).

3. Jot down any questions you have

Make a list of all your questions and concerns to ensure you get all the answers and information you need. Remember, there’s no such thing as a stupid question. We don’t expect you to be a legal expert, that’s what we’re here for. Ask as many questions as you like. It’s our job to make sure you’re fully informed and understand of all your options.

4. Putting your family first

You can discuss any childcare issues with your solicitor. We can suggest ways to resolve them to make things as easy as possible for your family. One way of achieving this is by using the collaborative approach. Collaborative law puts you and your partner or spouse in control of the separation process. All negotiations are conducted in four-way face to face meetings with a view to achieving a fair settlement. It can be used to resolve issues in relation to arrangements for children, finances and property matters.

Alternatively, you can choose family mediation. Family mediation is a voluntary and confidential process that helps you to reach decisions and joint solutions through discussion with an independent mediator. It can include arrangements for children, finances and property matters. We can refer you to a mediator. Then, when you are ready to move forward, we will help you to prepare the necessary documents to formalise your agreement and ensure they are legally binding.

5. Handling your financial matters

It is helpful if you have a list of any assets that will need to be considered as a part of your divorce settlement. If you own your own home together, what is the mortgage? Are there any other personal assets such as additional properties, vehicles, or stocks and shares, or business interests to consider? Are there any trusts or insurance policies, pensions or savings accounts?

If you can, it’s helpful to also have an idea of any debts or liabilities that you share with your partner and that you hold individually, for example mortgages, credit cards or bank loans.

6. Life after divorce

Our conveyancing team can also support you through any property sales and purchases and our Wills, Trusts and Probate team will help to ensure you are prepared for the future.

Watch our video – The key things to consider if you are separating from your spouse.

To make an appointment with one of our family solicitors call us on Hitchin 01462 458711 or email info@hrjforemanlaws.co.uk

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