A: Now we only have the No Fault Divorce, the ability to defend a divorce application on grounds other than jurisdiction does not exist.  In most cases, the duration is in the region of 6 months, but sometimes it can take slightly longer if your spouse delays or refuses to acknowledge receipt of the divorce application. Even if this happens, I will guide you through the process to make sure the delay is minimal.

Decisions relating to your child(ren) will be determined by various factors.  Such as, their age; their relationship with each parent; the ability of each parent to provide a safe and nurturing environment; and ultimately what is in their best interest. When it is necessary to involve the court, they may also take into account the child's wishes, depending on their age; the parents' work schedules, and any history of abuse or neglect. It's important to note that arrangements for the child(ren) can be flexible and may evolve as their needs change over time.

When determining a fair financial settlement, the court takes into account various factors, including the length of the marriage; each party's income and earning capacity; their age; standard of living during the marriage and financial needs. Depending on the length of the marriage, sometimes contributions made by each can be taken into account. Ultimately the parties needs will be an important factor, as well as any dependent children. It is important to seek legal advice to understand how these factors apply to your specific circumstances.

Prenuptial agreements, also known as Prenups, provide couples with clarity and security regarding the division of assets and financial arrangements in the event of a divorce. A marriage is a contract of commitment and often couples shy away from talking about Prenups, because they are embarrassed to talk about money, but before they get married, couples will always want what is best for each other, so that is the best time to talk about it.  Imagine a situation when you don’t have a Prenup and then 10 years later the marriage sadly ends, couples often do not at that time want what is best for each other and will do all they can to protect themselves. When the divorce process begins, so does sorting out their assets, they both then incur legal fees, and the relationship can become even more acrimonious.  In comparison to a couple who had a Prenup, they save themselves legal fees and even more heartache.  Prenups can help protect individual assets brought into the marriage, outline spousal support, and address other financial matters. Prenups can minimise conflicts and uncertainties during divorce proceedings, making the process smoother and potentially reducing legal costs.  Prenups are not yet legally binding in the UK, but in certain circumstances the court will give serious consideration to them, so it is very important to obtain legal advice to fully understand this.

Grandparents cannot automatically make an application to the court, they first must obtain the courts permission.  Once they have made an application, the court will consider the nature and strength of the grandparent-grandchild relationship, the grandparent's historical involvement in the child's life, and whether it is in the best interests of the child to maintain a relationship with their grandparents. The court recognizes the importance of maintaining these relationships when it is deemed beneficial for the child's well-being.