Divorce Day warning from top city lawyer

For many people it will be a stressful start to the New Year, as thousands of people pick up the phone to a lawyer to start divorce proceedings.

The post-Christmas and New Year phenomenon is so well established in legal circles that it has become known as ‘Divorce Day’.

And one of the country’s top divorce lawyers is warning couples to steer clear of so called “DIY divorces” as the motivation to save money on divorce can actually lead to couples losing out significantly financially in the long term.

Liz Allen from Stephens Scown LLP in Exeter has received the top ranking from independent guides to the law Chambers and Legal 500 and is widely regarded as one of the best divorce lawyers practicing in the UK.

She explains: “We usually see a spike in new divorce instructions in the first full working week after New Year. It seems that for some the stress of Christmas, family arguments and the financial pressures that many families feel at this time of year can trigger a couple to seek divorce.

“The withdrawal of Legal Aid for most family law cases has had a significant impact on some couples who have opted to represent themselves or use on-line divorce websites in an effort to save money. I have had many cases where we have become involved at a later stage after someone has attempted to represent themselves, and it often ends up costing more due to the time it takes to correct mistakes that are very easy for someone without the specialist knowledge of a divorce lawyer to make.

“Divorce procedure is very technical and particularly for financial matters, timing can be crucial. Attempting to represent yourself in a divorce could also mean that you risk missing out on the financial settlement you are entitled to.”

Stephens Scown has prepared some advice for couples thinking about divorce. Entitled “5 facts for a stress free divorce” it highlights issues such as seeking an expert opinion early and getting to grips with your money, by taking time to understand the state of joint bank accounts, savings and debts. Keeping lines of communication open with your ex is also seen to be crucial as is putting children first and thinking about options which do not involve court such as mediation, collaborative law or negotiation.

Stephens Scown’s family law team is ranked among the best in the country, gaining top rankings from independent guides to the law Chambers and Legal 500. Head of the family law team, Liz Allen has also been named on the 2014 Citywealth Leaders List, an international guide to the most highly regarded figures in private wealth management.

Stephens Scown has over 40 partners and 260 staff across its offices in Exeter, Truro and St Austell. For more information visit www.stephens-scown.co.uk