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Divorce is never easy, but in the UK, online divorce services have made the process more accessible and less stressful. These services offer a range of benefits that can help you navigate your separation more smoothly, quickly, and affordably. If you’re considering a divorce in the UK, here’s why online options might be worth exploring. 

1. Cost-Effective Online divorce services in the UK are significantly cheaper than traditional divorces, which can cost thousands of pounds. They typically charge a flat, affordable fee, making them ideal for uncontested divorces where both parties agree on the terms. 

2. Convenience and Flexibility Manage your divorce from home with online services, eliminating the need for solicitor visits or court appearances. This flexibility is especially beneficial for those with busy schedules or who live in different parts of the country. 

3. Speed and Efficiency While all divorces have a minimum time frame of 26 weeks, traditional divorces can take months more or even years, online services streamline the process, allowing you to finalise your divorce within weeks of this timeframe once paperwork is completed and terms are agreed upon. 

4. User-Friendly Process Our online platforms are straightforward and user-friendly, with clear instructions and easy-to-understand questionnaires that generate the necessary legal documents. 

5. Legal Support and Resources While not a replacement for full legal advice, online providers often offer access to legal professionals and resources like guides on child custody and property division. 

6. Lower Emotional Strain Online divorce services tend to be less confrontational, reducing the emotional strain on both parties and helping maintain a civil relationship during and after the divorce. 

7. Environmentally Friendly The digital nature of online divorce reduces the need for paper, making it an eco-friendlier option. 

8. Accessibility Online divorce services are accessible to everyone across the UK, including those in remote areas with limited access to legal services. 

Conclusion Online divorce providers have revolutionised how couples in the UK end their marriages, offering a cost-effective, convenient, and efficient solution that minimises the emotional and financial toll of divorce. If you’re considering a divorce in the UK, exploring online options could be a smart choice. 

Ready to take the next step? Contact Quickie-Divorce.com today on 0800 803 0813 to see how we can help you start your new chapter with ease and confidence. 

Divorce is often synonymous with lengthy battles, overwhelming paperwork, and emotional strain.

You often see news articles using the term ‘quickie divorce’ when referring to separating celebrities or general divorce news, where did this phrase come from? What does it actual mean?

Going back to 1998, at Quickie Divorce, we revolutionised the way people perceived and handled divorce proceedings by coining and popularising the term "quickie divorce." Our company has made the process more accessible, efficient, and affordable for thousands of couples across the UK.

The Birth of Quickie Divorce

Founded with a vision to streamline the divorce and offering cost effective solutions, we at Quickie Divorce emerged as game-changers in the legal landscape. Our mission was clear: to provide a straightforward, affordable, and expedited service for couples looking to part ways amicably. At the time and even now, divorce is seen as a protracted and costly affair that simply could not be done without visiting your local high street solicitor. Long and complicated divorce paperwork made everything feel extremely challenging and unobtainable. We offered a refreshing alternative!

By focusing on uncontested divorces where both parties agree on the separation terms, we drastically reduced the time and expense traditionally associated with the process. There have always been minimum required time frames at different stages of the divorce process and numerous stages of the divorce are dictated by the court processing time. By reducing processing times of paperwork in law firms from weeks to the same day, months could often be saved across the entire time frame.

Our innovative approach resonated with many, and soon, the term "quickie divorce" became synonymous with ease and efficiency.

Redefining Divorce in the UK

We demystified the divorce process, making it accessible to a broader audience and according to thousands of clients over the years, made divorce more accessible in a circumstance many simply couldn’t afford to face otherwise. Not only did was time saved by processing paperwork, but our online platform simplified the procedure, allowing individuals to complete necessary forms and file for divorce from the comfort of their homes. This digital-first approach was particularly groundbreaking, as it eliminated the need for numerous solicitor visits and minimised the emotional toll often linked with face-to-face meetings.

Moreover, our transparent pricing model and fixed fees offered predictability and affordability. Clients no longer had to worry about escalating costs, which is a common concern in traditional divorce proceedings. This financial clarity provided much-needed peace of mind during a challenging life transition.

Fast forward to today and you will find the term ‘Quickie Divorce’ is still used on a regular basis for and by anyone trying to get matters resolved quickly and cost effectively.

Embracing the Future

Our success has not only redefined how divorces are conducted in the UK but has also set a precedent for other legal services. Our pioneering use of technology and client-centric approach have inspired many legal firms to adopt similar models, ultimately benefiting consumers.

As societal attitudes towards marriage and divorce evolve, we remain at the forefront of providing compassionate, efficient, and affordable solutions for couples seeking to move on with their lives. We continue to innovate and adapt, ensuring our services exceed the needs of modern clients.

Conclusion

We stand by the same cost effective and fast services now, as we did in 1998 and the 26 years in between! We have made the process of separation less intimidating and more accessible for countless couples. You are our number 1 priority, our commitment is to provide you with simplicity, affordability, and efficiency from start to finish.

For any of your divorce needs, get in touch with us now on 0800 803 0813 to discuss the services we can provide you. Alternatively, if you prefer, drop us a message via enquiries@quickie-divorce.com. We are here to help!

When you divorce, you need to pay the court a fee. This money is used by His Majesty's Courts and Tribunals Service (HMCTS) to maintain the system, ensuring it’s properly funded with enough resources to keep up with the demands of people seeking divorce.

What do you need to know?

The main most important point is that the cost of divorce / civil partnership dissolution is set to increase to £652 from £593, with this change taking place in Spring 2024, most likely in April or May.

What Does This Mean For You?

This increase means most divorcing couples will need to pay a larger court fee to get their divorce finalised. But this doesn’t mean there aren’t things that can’t be done to make things a little easier financially.

Get Help With Court Fees!

As well as the court fee increasing, the threshold for those who can apply for reduction or full waiver of fees has increased. This means more people are entitled to help and support with fees. If you are concerned about the cost of getting divorced, give us a call and we will guide you through the fee exemption process and let you know how much reduction you will receive.

Conclusion

With the recent changes to the HMCTS, court fees are going to increase. Changing laws and changing processes can make what is an already stressful and difficult time that much harder. Don’t worry, we are here to help.

Here at Quickie Divorce, divorce is our specialty. We know what to look out for and how to handle divorces, saving you money, time, and stress. We know how difficult this is, so give us a call at 0800 803 0813 and we will be more than happy to help. 

It is important to understand how your pension rights may be affected during a divorce. After all, it is likely that your pension will be one of the biggest assets you will have in retirement. In this blog post, we’ll discuss how pensions are typically divided during a divorce so that you can make informed decisions about your future.

How Are Pensions Divided?

In most cases, the starting point is for pension benefits to be divided equally between spouses when they go through a divorce. This means that each spouse will receive an equal share of the pension benefits however there are various contributing factors to take into consideration such as the length of marriage and how much pension was accrued during their marriage. Should the parties be unable to decide amicably between themselves on pension sharing, the court can be asked to help reach a decision and in certain circumstances, the court may decide that an unequal division is more appropriate.

What Factors Does the Court Consider?

When deciding how to divide pension benefits during a divorce, courts consider many different factors such as length of marriage, age and health of both parties, contributions made to the marital estate (including non-financial contributions such as childcare) and earning potential going forward. The court also looks at each party’s financial need and any other relevant factor when making its determination.

Can I Keep My Entire Pension?

The court may deem it reasonable at the request of one of the parties to grant them all or a larger portion of the pension, when offset against the value of other marital assets, such as the marital home. This is often done if one spouse has significantly more retirement savings than the other or if both parties agree that it would be fairer for one person to keep all the retirement savings rather than dividing them equally. It’s important to come to a mutual agreement with your spouse about your combined assets, which can be difficult due to the stress of the divorce.

Conclusion:

Divorcing couples should always be aware of their rights when it comes to splitting up pensions during a divorce settlement. It is important to understand how pensions are typically divided and what factors courts consider when deciding on an equitable split so that you can make informed decisions about your future financial security. Working with experienced legal professionals like Quickie Divorce who specialise in family law can help you navigate this difficult process and ensure that you get your divorce settlement agreement made legally binding via a Clean Break Financial Order package. Taking these steps now can help ensure peace of mind in years ahead!

 

Call us on 0800 803 0813 to discuss your situation further.

Introduction:

Divorce can be an overwhelming and emotional journey for anyone. If you find yourself contemplating divorce and wondering how to approach this difficult topic, you're not alone. At Quickie Divorce, we understand the complexities of ending a marriage and aim to provide guidance and support to those seeking a smooth and hassle-free divorce process. In this blog, we will walk you through the steps to ask for divorce while also providing essential information about our services. Remember, you don't have to go through this challenging time alone – Quickie Divorce is here to help.

1. Self-Reflection and Decision-Making:

Before asking for a divorce, take the time for self-reflection and consider if it's the right step for you. Reflect on the reasons why you want to end your marriage and evaluate if all possibilities for reconciliation have been exhausted. Ensure that divorce is the best option for your well-being and happiness.

2. Open Communication:

Once you've made the difficult decision to seek a divorce, open communication is essential. Choose a calm and private setting to talk with your spouse about your feelings and intentions. Approach the conversation with honesty and sensitivity, allowing both of you to express your emotions without judgment. Remember, this is a challenging time for both parties, so empathy and compassion can make a significant difference.

3. Seek Professional Support:

Navigating a divorce can be legally complex and having a reliable source of professional support is crucial. Quickie Divorce offers expert legal assistance and advice to help you understand the legal process, rights, and responsibilities. Our experienced team of divorce specialists will guide you through every step of the way, making the process as smooth as possible.

4. Streamlining the Legal Process:

Quickie Divorce offers an efficient and cost-effective way to handle uncontested divorces. Rather than hiring separate solicitors, which can be time-consuming and expensive, our service allows both parties to use the same solicitors, simplifying the process. This streamlined approach reduces paperwork, time, and stress, ensuring a swift and amicable resolution.

Contact Quickie Divorce:

At Quickie Divorce, we strive to make your divorce journey as smooth as possible. If you're considering a divorce and need expert guidance or have any questions about our services, please don't hesitate to contact us.

Phone: 0800 803 0813

Website: https://www.quickie-divorce.com/

Conclusion:

Asking for a divorce is undoubtedly a difficult decision, but with the right support, you can navigate the process with confidence and ease. Quickie Divorce is here to provide the expert assistance you need, whether it's through mediation services or streamlined legal processes. Remember, you're not alone in this journey – reach out to us at Quickie Divorce and let us help you begin a new chapter in your life.

Divorce is a difficult process for any couple, emotionally and financially. It can be a long and complicated period with many factors to consider. One of the most important is how finances are divided. When couples get divorced, they must decide how to divide their joint assets, debts, and investments in order to ensure that both parties receive a fair settlement. In this blog post, we will explore some of the financial implications of divorce so that you can make informed decisions when dividing your finances in a divorce.

Division of Assets & Debts

When it comes to dividing assets and debts in a divorce, the court will usually take into consideration the length of marriage, each partner's income level, and other factors such as whether there were any prenuptial agreements in place. The starting point is to divide assets and debts equally between the two parties, then taking into consideration several factors governed by the leading legislation for divorce, the matrimonial causes act 1973 section 25. As an example, if one spouse has racked up credit card debt during the marriage then they may have to retain that debt even after the divorce is finalised, instead of the debt being shared between both parties. However, if the debt that has occurred with co-signatures of both parties, such as house mortgages and car loans then both parties could be responsible for repaying said debt after the divorce. It is imperative that you receive good support and guidance throughout the divorce to ensure your best interests.

Spousal Maintenance

Another important factor to consider when getting divorced is spousal maintenance payments. This is money paid from one spouse to another for maintenance or support following a divorce or separation. Spousal maintenance is paid by one spouse to another before the final dissolution of the marriage.           

In most cases, spousal maintenance is paid until either party remarries or until certain conditions have been met such as reaching an agreed upon amount or date. Spousal maintenance can be ordered by the court, but they are not always necessary. It’s possible for couples to come up with their own agreement regarding maintenance outside of court proceedings. Again, having the support and guidance of experts in this field can seriously help aid you during your divorce and to ensure all agreements reached are legally binding. Call us on 0800 803 0813 to discuss your situation further.

Conclusion

Divorce has many financial implications that should be considered when filing any financial application. Understanding how assets and debts are divided, spousal maintenance can help make navigating through the complex process easier. By doing your research beforehand, you can ensure that you receive an equitable settlement which will benefit both parties involved. Ultimately, having these details settled upfront can help provide peace of mind throughout this stressful period in your life. At Quickie Divorce will ensure any agreement reached is fully legally binding while providing full support throughout via our Clean Break Financial Order package.

Breaking up with someone in an amicable way is not exactly a simple feat, especially when you've been in a committed relationship for a long time. You might have tried everything to make things work, but things just aren't clicking. It's time to have a serious discussion about splitting up and perhaps moving on. This conversation can be challenging, painful and intense especially when you are the one who initiates it. However, it doesn't have to be that way. In this blog post, we'll discuss how you can talk to your partner about separating amicably and navigating the complex process of breaking up in a way that is kind, empathetic, and respectful.

1. Choose the right time and place

When you decide to talk to your partner about amicable separation, choose a neutral setting where you can have an honest conversation without any distractions. Avoid places where your partner might feel trapped, like their home or public places like restaurants or cafes. Choose a time when both of you can talk calmly and peacefully, avoiding times when one or both of you are stressed, tired or angry.

2. Be Honest but tactful

When you start talking to your partner about separating, it's essential to be honest about your feelings, reasons behind the separation and what you both can expect going forward. Avoid being accusatory or blaming your partner for the reasons for the split. Rather, focus on how you genuinely feel about the relationship and why you think it's time to call it quits. Be gentle, empathetic but firm in your decision, and try to maintain a respectful tone throughout the conversation.

 

3. Listen Attentively

An amicable separation requires mutual understanding and open-mindedness. Therefore, you need to listen to your partner's response carefully and respectfully, ensuring that you hear them out. Avoid interrupting or talking over them. Rather, give them a chance to vocalise their feelings, concerns and any questions they may have. This communication ensures that both of you are on the same page and can work towards a shared outcome.

4. Discuss future arrangements

Once you've come to an agreement to split amicably, you need to discuss practical matters about the future like living arrangements, finances, and even how you'll break the news to family and friends. Brainstorm together and reach a shared agreement that is practical and genuine for both of you.

5. Get Professional Assistance

Taking care of yourself and seeking assistance from professionals like a therapist, a mediator or a legal representative can make the process of an amicable split smoother and easier. These individuals can offer valuable insight, advice and a listening ear to help you navigate the legal, financial, emotional and mental aspects involved in a breakup.

Conclusion:

Ending a relationship can be a difficult thing to do, but by taking the time to plan and execute an amicable separation, you and your partner can part ways with respect and dignity. By following the steps provided in this post, you can have heartfelt conversations about separation, take care of yourself and seek help if necessary. Ultimately, it is essential to ensure that both of you aren't carrying the burden of a toxic relationship, leading to poor emotional and physical health. Choosing to end things amicably could be the best decision you make, setting you both on a path to healing and recovery.

Quickie Divorce can facilitate an amicable divorce by streamlining the legal process, providing clear guidance, and minimizing conflicts, enabling both parties to part ways with mutual understanding and reduced emotional strain. Contact us today at 0800 803 0813 so both of you can move forward to a happier future.

Divorce is an emotionally challenging process for anyone involved, but when mental health concerns are also a factor, it can add an additional layer of complexity. Making the decision to divorce someone with mental health issues is never easy, but sometimes it becomes necessary for the well-being and happiness of both individuals. At Quickie Divorce, we understand the unique challenges that arise when mental health is involved, and we strive to provide a quick, straightforward, and affordable solution to help minimise stress throughout the divorce process.

Understanding the Impact of Mental Health on Divorce:

Divorcing someone with mental health issues requires a sensitive approach. Mental health conditions can significantly affect a person's emotional stability, decision-making abilities, and overall well-being. At Quickie Divorce, we recognise the importance of approaching the divorce process with empathy and understanding, acknowledging the complexities that mental health concerns bring to the situation.

The Importance of Seeking Support:

Before starting the divorce journey, it is crucial for individuals to build a support system. We encourage our clients to reach out to friends, family, or a therapist who can provide emotional support and guidance throughout the process. Additionally, we recommend consulting with a legal professional experienced in divorce cases involving mental health concerns. They can help navigate the legal complexities and provide valuable advice tailored to each individual's specific situation.

Simplifying the Process with Quickie Divorce:

Quickie Divorce is a service designed to simplify the divorce process, making it quicker and more accessible for couples looking to dissolve their marriage. By choosing our service, couples can minimise stress and streamline the legal proceedings. Let's explore the key benefits of Quickie Divorce:

Speedy Process:

At Quickie Divorce, we offer an efficient process that saves time compared to traditional divorce methods. By using our streamlined systems, couples can finalise their divorce in a shorter time frame, reducing prolonged emotional strain.

Affordability:

We understand that divorce can be financially burdensome. To alleviate this stress, Quickie Divorce provides fixed-price packages, allowing couples to better plan their finances and avoid unexpected expenses.

Simplified Paperwork:

Our dedicated team at Quickie Divorce assists couples in completing the necessary paperwork and guides them through the legal requirements. We understand that legal terminology can be overwhelming, so we strive to simplify the process, ensuring accuracy and minimising errors that could cause delays.

Prioritising Self-Care:

Divorcing someone with mental health concerns can take a toll on your own well-being. During this challenging period, it's crucial to prioritise self-care. At Quickie Divorce, we encourage our clients to take time for themselves, engage in activities that bring them joy, and seek professional support if needed. Remember that your mental and emotional well-being are equally important throughout the divorce process.

Co-Parenting and Mental Health:

If children are involved in the divorce, co-parenting with someone who has mental health concerns requires careful consideration. Quickie Divorce emphasises the importance of establishing open lines of communication, setting clear boundaries, and working towards a parenting plan that prioritises the children's best interests. Seeking the guidance of a family therapist or mediator can help navigate the complexities and ensure a healthy co-parenting dynamic.

Conclusion:

Divorcing someone with mental health concerns can be a challenging and emotionally taxing process. At Quickie Divorce, we are here to support you through this journey by offering a simplified, affordable, and efficient solution that minimises stress. Contact us today at 0800 0584467.

Going through a divorce can be emotionally challenging, and the added burden of court fees can make the process even more daunting. However, in the UK, there is a solution to alleviate this financial strain: Court Fee Exemption for Divorce. In this blog post, we will explore what court fee exemption entails, who is eligible, how to navigate the process, and the role of Quickie Divorce in providing support. 

1. What is Court Fee Exemption for Divorce? 

Court Fee Exemption for Divorce is a provision that allows individuals with limited financial resources to apply for exemption from paying court fees associated with their divorce proceedings. It ensures that everyone, regardless of their financial situation, can access the legal support they need during this challenging time. 

2. Eligibility for Court Fee Exemption: 

To be eligible for court fee exemption, you must meet specific income criteria or be receiving certain government benefits. These criteria are designed to assist individuals who genuinely require financial relief to pursue their divorce case. 

3. Navigating the Application Process: 

Applying for court fee exemption in a divorce case involves completing the necessary forms and providing supporting documentation to demonstrate your financial circumstances. The court will review your application and make a decision based on the information provided. It's important to ensure accuracy and completeness in your application to maximize your chances of a successful exemption. 

4. The Role of Quickie Divorce: 

Quickie Divorce is here to support you throughout the court fee exemption process and your divorce journey. With our expertise in divorce cases, we can provide valuable guidance and assistance in completing the necessary forms, gathering supporting documents, and reviewing your application. Quickie Divorce understands the unique challenges individuals face during divorce, especially when combined with financial constraints. 

5. Benefits of Court Fee Exemption: 

Obtaining a court fee exemption for your divorce case can offer several significant benefits. It relieves you from the financial burden of court fees, allowing you to focus on the divorce proceedings without added stress. Accessing justice becomes more attainable, ensuring that you have the resources necessary to navigate the legal aspects of your divorce. 

Conclusion: 

Court Fee Exemption for Divorce in the UK is a vital provision that ensures access to justice for individuals facing financial constraints during divorce proceedings. By understanding the eligibility criteria, navigating the application process, and seeking support from Quickie Divorce, you can alleviate the financial burden and focus on your divorce with peace of mind. Remember, access to justice should never be compromised by financial barriers, and court fee exemption, along with the support of Quickie Divorce, is here to help you during this challenging time. 

Call us today on: 0800 0584467 

No-fault divorce will be introduced into law on 6th April 2022. The key focus of the law change is to remove the fault or blame in divorce.

Under current divorce law, one party must divorce the other party citing a ground for divorce such as adultery or unreasonable behaviour. If neither of these grounds are applicable, a separation period of two-year separation is required with the consent of the other party or five-year separation without the consent of the other party.

Furthermore, under current divorce law the Respondent can object and defend the divorce proceedings, resulting in many people being left trapped in a marriage or spending thousands fighting to leave the marriage.

The aim of the Divorce, Dissolution and Separation Act 2020 is to reform the divorce process to reduce potential conflict and animosity. This is done by removing the ability to make allegations about the conduct and behaviour of the respondent and requiring parties be trapped in the marriage for long periods of separation.

Here are a few key points from the new Divorce, Dissolution and Separation Act 2020 coming into law on 6th April 2022:

Minimum Cooling Off Period

Currently, a simplistic divorce can be done in a period of 3 – 5 months. Under new reform the divorce will now require a minimum waiting period of 20 weeks between the divorce application and the conditional order. This is followed by a further waiting period of 6 weeks between the conditional order and final order, meaning every divorce will now take a minimum of 6 months. This time frame is intended to provide divorcing parties with a period of reflection and to plan for the future.

No Allegations of Fault

The ability to file for divorce on adultery, unreasonable behaviour or long periods of separation-based grounds will be replaced with one simple requirement. All that is required is for one party to provide a short statement confirming the marriage has broken down irretrievably.

End of the Contested Divorce

It will no longer be possible to contest a divorce, except on the limited ground of stating the Court in England and Wales do not have jurisdiction. The statement provided at the divorce application stating the marriage has broken down irretrievably will be taken as conclusive evidence that cannot be contested.

Joint Divorce Applications

As well as separate divorce applications, couples looking to get divorced amicably without one party divorcing the other can apply together through a joint divorce application. This removes

the need for back and forth between the parties and disagreements as to who should divorce who which allows couples to move forward on a technical equal playing field.

The vast majority of divorces filed in England and Wales are uncontested. This, it is widely believed, means that everyone involved in the divorce agrees and wants their marriage to legally end. Whilst this is partly true, a divorce can actually be uncontested by the Respondent whilst simultaneously also effectively being blocked by them.

As part of the divorce process, the Respondent informs the court that they consent to the divorce by completing and returning a D10 form (also known as an Acknowledgement of Service) to them. This form is sent to the Respondent along with a copy of the documentation that was filed by their spouse following a divorce having started and contains a section where the Respondent is afforded the opportunity to either consent to or contest it. Should they actively choose to contest the divorce, they will need to pay a fee to the court. Furthermore, doing so almost always results in a court hearing which brings inconvenience and stress. It is therefore rare that Respondent’s actively contest divorces. Instead, they simply do not return this form – but it’s important to note that this doesn’t always mean that the divorce will be unable to proceed.

Can you get a divorce if the Respondent doesn’t return the D10 form?

In the event that the Respondent attempts to block a divorce by refusing to complete and return the D10 form, it is still possible to obtain a divorce unless the application relied on either adultery or two-year separation with consent.

In order to obtain a divorce as a result of the Respondent having committed adultery, it is necessary for the Respondent to confirm that they did engage in infidelity. In the case of two-year separation, the Respondent’s consent is an unavoidable requirement. This means that, in order for a divorce relying on either ground to progress, the Respondent must complete and return the aforementioned form D10. If they do not, then it is virtually impossible for the Petitioner to prove that the Respondent was unfaithful. Plus, of course, consent will clearly not have been provided if this form is not completed and returned to the court.

If the application cited unreasonable behaviour or five-year separation, it can still proceed though it may be necessary to pay a further fee for a process server to hand-deliver the documents to the Respondent. Doing so will mean that the Petitioner is able to prove that the Respondent has received the documents and is refusing to return them, and the courts will allow the divorce to proceed as a result.

When filing on the grounds of five-year separation, consent is not required but it is preferable that the Respondent be made aware of the application. It’s possible to get divorced without the Respondent knowing, but only if the Petitioner has been unable to locate them after an extensive search or if there’s a compelling reason not to inform them of proceedings.

With unreasonable behaviour, the Respondent refusing to complete and return documents would, in itself, be seen as sufficient proof of the fact that the party is capable of behaving in a manner that they are likely to know is unreasonable.

We’ve written about how one of the most difficult parts of a divorce is the need for a couple to divide their assets. Agreeing on how property, savings etc. should be split is – due to the inevitably emotive nature of such problems – highly problematic. Dividing private and state pensions, though, is even more testing; discussing these assets can not only provoke an emotional response but, due to a lack of clear guidelines, also confusion.

Couples looking to do their own divorce aren’t the only ones that find it difficult to decide how pensions should be fairly divided. Legal professionals – including judges – have also struggled due to a lack of clear guidelines on how these assets should be treated throughout divorce. In the hope of addressing this the Pension Advisory Group was formed. More importantly, this group recently published a guide on how to deal with pensions in a divorce for judges, solicitors, pension experts and, indeed, divorcing couples themselves.

With pensions usually being the second-most valuable asset that is divided in a divorce (second only to property), and it having been reported that the law concerning the way they are to be divided in the event of a divorce is unclear, it is hoped that these guidelines will result in more consistent outcomes. Both the full guide and a summary can be found here.

How to finalise any agreement on pensions before a divorce is finalised

For couples that are able to agree on how they intend to divide their pensions, they can make this agreement – and any concerning other assets such as properties, savings etc. – legally binding and enforceable by obtaining a document known as a Consent Order and filing this with the court for approval after a Decree Nisi has been granted but before applying for the Decree Absolute.

A Consent Order will need to outline all of the major assets that a couple possess (which will be disclosed within a separate document accompanying the application) as well as how they are to be divided and when exchanges etc. are to have been fulfilled. Once this agreement has been reviewed and approved by a judge, the agreements outlined within the document become both legally binding and, perhaps more importantly, enforceable.

Quickie Divorce strongly recommend that any couple that is able to reach an agreement without needing to ask the courts to issue rulings obtain a Consent Order and that they do so before finalising their divorce by applying for their Decree Absolute. Doing so will prevent any future claims being filed by either spouse, will make the agreements enforceable and, vitally, will provide both parties with peace of mind.

Unlike the standard documents that are used in the divorce process, a Consent Order cannot be completed by a layperson. Fortunately, this doesn’t mean that you’ll need to instruct a solicitor and accept the large bill that’ll inevitably follow. Instead, you can use an online divorce provider like Quickie Divorce. We’ll take care of your divorce and prepare a Consent Order on your behalf for what would typically only buy you an hour of a solicitor’s time.