If you do not wish to divorce for social or religious reasons or you have been married for less than a year, we are able to advise you in relation to judicial separation proceedings. This will ensure that your rights in relation to children and finances are protected whilst still remaining married.
However a legal or judicial separation is not always necessary. As this area of divorce is of particular complexity, it is in your best interests to contact us for specific advice about your particular circumstances.

Separation Agreements
If you choose not to seek a judicial separation then the powers of the courts to sort out a couples’ financial affairs will not come into play.  A Separation Agreement may then be an appropriate alternative.  This is a formal written agreement entered into by a married couple who wish to record the financial agreement that they have reached dealing with the financial consequences of their decision to separate. A Separation Agreement can save separating couples a considerable amount of money, in wasted legal fees as well as saving you the hassle and tribulations of a court battle. Where a financial agreement has been reached it can give both spouses a degree of protection if that agreement is recorded in a legal document. Such an agreement does not promise that you will not end up arguing your case in a court, but it can go a long way toward avoiding legal action or at least clarifying issues today and in the future.
Such agreements are normally upheld by the courts but can be set aside if there has been a significant change in one party's circumstances. Where the terms of the agreement seem to favour one party rather than the other, it is important for both parties to obtain independent legal advice to avoid a claim by one party that they were forced to sign it.

These are straightforward agreements which deal with financial matters such as lump sum payments and maintenance payments for the spouse and any children. It is possible to also include options such as arrangements for the disposal of the house by sale only and an option to include a timetable for divorce.