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Buckinghamshire Family Law Specialists

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Family Law advice from Evans Solicitors Milton Keynes and Buckingham

DIY Divorce: Is this a good idea?

Is there such a thing as a DIY divorce? Can you apply for a divorce without appointing a lawyer?

The answer, simply put, is yes.

If  you’re happy to handle your own divorce, you can do this online using the government website. Here is the link Get a divorce: How to apply – GOV.UK (www.gov.uk)

What you should know if you’re planning a DIY divorce:

  • obtaining a divorce does not automatically address issues regarding the matrimonial finances or issues regarding the future care of children.
  • obtaining a Decree Absolute in divorce proceedings – the final step where the Court declares the parties to be officially divorced – will NOT close the door on financial claims or achieve an automatic financial “clean break” between yourself and your spouse.  Financial claims can remain live for many years, long after the pronouncement of the Decree Absolute.

How to arrange financial matters in a DIY Divorce

If you are planning a DIY divorce without assistance from a family lawyer, you should proceed with caution if there are financial issues to be addressed and resolved.  If you’ve already discussed and agreed financial matters with your spouse, consider having a “Consent Order” drawn up detailing the terms of your financial agreement. 

What is the purpose of a Consent Order?

A consent order details any agreements you and your spouse have reached about your financial affairs ahead of your divorce. A Consent Order can be lodged with the Court for approval in the divorce proceedings and, once approved, the financial settlement will be made legally binding. This means the contents of the Consent Order can be enforced through the family courts, if necessary. 

Even if you and your spouse have reached a financial settlement, either party could bring a further claim in the future unless your agreement is detailed in a Consent Order approved by the Court.

When should you appoint a family lawyer to handle your divorce?

  • If you feel that you don’t have the time to oversee divorce proceedings
  • If you don’t feel confident enough to handle your own divorce and would like advice and support along the way
  • If you and your spouse can’t come to an agreement about your marital finances or your children
  • If you want to ensure that all matters arising from the breakdown of your marriage have been dealt with, and that you won’t be left exposed to future problems.

As family lawyers, we specialise in all aspects of family law and can assist you with any issues arising from your separation. If you have decided to end your marriage you should consider seeking legal advice as soon as possible. Call us on 01908 082442 or complete the contact form to request an initial free consultation. 

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Evans Solicitors

Evans Solicitors is dedicated to family law matters. Naomi Evans is a Solicitor specialising in family law and she is a member of Resolution (formerly the Solicitors Family Law Association) and is committed to helping client’s resolve matters amicably where possible.

Accredited Specialists



logo of Wiselaw, a, information site for people who are seeking information regarding divorce and family law and who wish to research the best family law solicitors in their area.

Naomi Evans is listed as a Leading Lawyer by Wiselaw.

How Can We Help?

  • Applying for a Divorce
  • The Divorce Process
  • How to Select a Solicitor
  • Divorce Finances
  • Divorce Costs
  • Arrangements for children after separation
  • Moving to live abroad with children
  • Grandparents’ Rights
  • Civil Partnership Dissolution
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  • Prenuptial Agreements
  • Postnuptial Agreements
  • Domestic Violence Advice and Support

Contact Us

Luminous House, 300 South Row, Central Milton Keynes, MK9 2FR. 01908 082 442

naomi.evans@evanssolicitors.co.uk

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