The start of a new year is often a period of reflection and an opportunity to make a fresh start. That might be something as simple as setting a new year’s resolution -  for example to learn a new skill or to spend less - or it may involve very significant life changes that will affect your long-term future.

For some, a new year may mean the start of a new life due to a separation or divorce. However daunting this seems our experienced team of family solicitors here at Birkett Long will help and guide you through the process. All our family solicitors are members of an organisation called Resolution, meaning we are committed to resolving disputes amicably and minimising conflict.

No-fault divorce

In April 2022, the divorce law changed dramatically with the introduction of no-fault divorce. This has made it easier for couples to divorce amicably by removing the need to apportion blame for the breakdown of the marriage. It is important to remember that the divorce itself is only a small part of the process of separating - which will include dividing up assets and making arrangements for children - all of which makes it very important to obtain specialist legal advice at an early stage.

We are here to navigate you through the entire divorce process, as well as to help you consider the wider issues that will need to be addressed as part of the separation. Our team will advise you on all aspects of family law to ease you through this difficult time and get the best result for you and your family as you enter a new chapter of your life.

Unmarried couples

It may be that you are unmarried but contemplating a separation from your partner or perhaps you have recently separated. It is a very common misconception that unmarried couples have the same financial claims upon separation as married couples. Sadly, this is not true, and despite a campaign for reform in this area we have yet to see any conclusive changes in the law. 

The position for unmarried couples is therefore rather different to that of their married counterparts and it is important you seek specialist legal advice as soon as possible. Most importantly, you should ensure that you have correct documentation drawn up to reflect the terms of your separation. We can help you with this, including the preparation of a Separation Agreement that will help to clarify your ongoing financial position.

Your first Christmas post-separation

You may be reading this having separated last year and having just experienced your first Christmas without your family. This is undeniably tough on everyone involved. But perhaps now that the milestone of your first Christmas post-separation is over you can look forward to what 2023 will bring and see it as an opportunity to embrace a new beginning. 

If you are planning to move in with a partner and/or purchase a home together, there are several things you should consider. Most importantly, you need to make sure the correct documentation is drawn up to protect your respective interests in the property and document your living together arrangements and the ownership of the property. We can explain the benefits of a cohabitation agreement and/or a declaration of trust and draw up these documents for you. And if you are getting married in 2023, you may wish to consider entering into a pre-nuptial agreement with your soon-to-be husband or wife. If so, it is best to get legal advice in good time before the wedding so that you can be reassured about your financial position.

If you or someone you know requires legal advice on any of the issues raised above, please get in touch with one of our specialist family solicitors. We offer a free 15-minute initial telephone consultation in which we aim to gain an outline of your situation and explain how we can help you move towards the next chapter of your life.