You can’t get divorced unless you get married. Aside from stating the obvious, I’m underlining the point that these days marriage seems little more than a precursor to divorce. It was only within the last week that I heard an acquaintance remark about how much more fun his divorce is compared to his marriage.
Granted, there is maybe a little relief when it all becomes absolute, but this rising trend that divorce is the main course after the entre of marriage is eroding at society. That sounds sweeping, but marriage just doesn’t seem to mean what it used to.
For better or worse is a redundant term as couples seem to run to divorce solicitors at the merest hint that they have actually married another human being just as flawed as they are. For better or slightly worse than better may be more apt.
When nothing but divorce will do though and there is no salvaging the wreckage of supposed wedded harmony, the last thing you need on top of the stress are spiralling costs and poor quality representation:
BBC News – Rising costs add to divorce woe, says Legal Ombudsman
Marriage should be more – much more than an exercise in saving for divorce. Divorce costs are starting to rival what you’ll spend on a wedding day; and it looks like there are some unscrupulous solicitors looking to capitalise on clients engaged in an acrimonious divorce. That’s abuse, whichever way you cut it up. That is praying on the vulnerable and taking advantage of their state of mind.
A common and highly justifiable complaint by clients and consumers in the financial services industry is that charges are not transparent and clear. The Retail Distribution Review was set up to combat that issue (although it’s clear that there are many providers and platforms that are quite happy to work around that and leave clients still scratching their head when it comes to exactly what they are paying!) and I would say it’s time that something similar was brought in to weed out the more unscrupulous solicitors that just want your money.
If you’re not happy with your legal representation and feel they are not acting in your best interests, then please get in touch by phone on 0800 092 1229 or by email –hello@thedivorceifa.co.uk. I can recommend excellent law firms that will act with your best interests at heart.
Divorce costs are rising due to a combination of factors, including higher legal fees, longer proceedings, and more complex financial arrangements. Disputes involving property, pensions, or businesses can significantly increase costs, particularly in acrimonious cases where matters are not resolved amicably.
One of the most effective ways to control costs is to seek clear, transparent pricing from the outset and to question any fees you do not understand. Exploring alternative dispute resolution methods, such as mediation or collaborative divorce, can also help reduce time and expense. Ensuring your solicitor is acting efficiently and in your best interests is key to preventing unnecessary costs from escalating.
A financial advisor can help you understand your full financial position early in the process, which can prevent costly disputes later on. By clarifying assets, liabilities, income, and future needs, an advisor can support more informed decision-making and reduce the likelihood of prolonged negotiations or unexpected financial issues arising.
Image Credit: Flickr.com/stan