Experts in

Divorce & Matrimonial Services

Dealing with divorce and matrimonial issues can cause tension and become a difficult period in your life. Here at Goodwins Family Law we treat all our clients with the utmost respect and strive to always protect our clients’ interests. We aim to achieve a fair resolution to divorce proceedings and matrimonial issues to ease this difficult transitional period in your life.

• We provide family divorce advice and representation to guide you through the entire process from Petition to Decree Absolute & continuing support afterwards.
• We understand the divorce and matrimonial proceedings can be complex and sometimes difficult to understand, for this reason we will clearly explain the three aspects of divorce including: Financial arrangements and the options available to you, Child maintenance, Custody.

Informal Separation

This can happen for a number of reasons; you may decide you simply wish to live separately within the same or different property without formalising the separation in anyway. An informal separation can be a way to explore the reality of formal separation before divorce proceedings.

The court will not be involved in an informal separation, therefore saving on legal expenses and the inevitable emotional strain of court. However, despite the benefits of an informal separation, it is not an ideal long term solution. Legally you will not have the same rights as a formal or judicial separation; if you are unhappy with any aspect of your separation and you cannot reach a mutual agreement regarding child custody or any other issues, you will not have the support of the law.

Formal Separation

A formal separation agreement, also known as legal separation, is a legally binding document outlining the need for independent legal advice and disclosure of your financial responsibilities and position. This is encouraged if an immediate divorce is not possible. A formal separation clearly states the conditions you must abide by, such as childcare and living arrangements, and can assist you in securing a settlement outside of court.

Judicial Separation

Judicial separation is similar to that of a divorce but it does not legally dissolve the marriage. This form of separation is particularly useful for those couples who, due to cultural or religious obligations, do not wish to or cannot enter into divorce proceedings.

Divorce

Finally, divorce is the official judicial process to dissolve a marriage. A divorce could provide a conclusion regarding financial claims to accumulated assets throughout the course of the marriage. There are several grounds for divorce, including adultery, unreasonable behaviour, desertion, and 2 to 5 years of separation. Unless adultery or unreasonable behaviour takes place, at least a two year period of separation is essential.

The first step in any divorce proceedings is to seek legal advice; you or your spouse may be the initiator of divorce proceedings; in either case you will need individual representation. To discuss any of the issues outlined above, please contact our expert team who will be happy to offer help and advice or arrange an initial consultation.