Research carried out by The Times showed that the number of people representing themselves in divorce disputes has increased from 35% to 57% in the last five years. An increase in DIY divorces and the connected issues such as finances and arrangements for children are entering the courts without any legal assistance or representation.
Why?
Legal Aid was cut significantly eight years ago under David Cameron’s government. It is now limited and very few are eligible for it. The ongoing cost of a solicitor running a case will be high and the Family Court rarely orders the other person to pay your costs or a contribution towards them. No matter whether you feel your ex is at fault, you are likely to end up paying all your legal fees.
The Legal Tip; Another Way?
HMCTS has an online divorce platform which has made the divorce itself a form filling exercise. It is user friendly and will start the process efficiently. Other areas connected to divorce are not so straight forward and without any advice, people do not know what they are financially entitled to or what to do about arrangements for their children. Legal Tips gives Family Law Advice from a Resolution lawyer. We offer legal advice as and when you need it. Legal Tips recognise that people need support with family law issues but cannot always afford a solicitor to represent them.
We offer court support with a non-legal litigation/McKenzie friend who will help if you are in the court process already. They will share the load and stress of court proceedings, and give practical support.
These statistics show that more people feel they cannot access advice and end up in court on their own. Taking legal advice early on can help with looking at different options and ideally keep you out of the court process altogether. Our Legal Tip is to get the advice you need for when you need it. You do not have to do it on your own.
For more information – Family Law Advice – Legal Tips
Do get in touch here at info@legaltips.co.uk if you are thinking of a divorce and do not know where to start.