When two people enter into a marriage, it is supposed to be a lifelong commitment and they never envisage calling upon the services of a divorce solicitor. However, sometimes things don’t work out quite as planned. Divorce can be an emotionally and financially draining experience for both parties. This is why it’s so important to seek legal advice from a divorce solicitor at the right time in the process.

In Ireland, the law was changed in 2020 to reduce the waiting time for a divorce from four years down to two. This law change, coupled with the fading of the stigma around divorce, has led to an increase in the figures for divorce in recent years. So it’s certainly a process that’s becoming more common across Ireland.

Nobody enters the divorce process lightly, however, there may be a time when you and your spouse decide that it’s the best option for both of you. So when is the right time to enlist the services of a divorce solicitor?

Simply put, as soon as possible. The earlier you appoint a divorce solicitor, the better positioned you will be to make informed decisions about your future. There are some specific circumstances to consider that may signal to you that it’s time to seek legal advice. In this article, we are going to share some of those with you.

 

When Is The Right Time To Get A Divorce Solicitor? - eBook - SM - Summit Law

 

When you have gone through the separation process and divorce is the next step

 

With the new legislation in place from 2020, now couples who wish to divorce have to be separated for two years out of the previous three. So if you’re at this point but you’re still unsure of whether divorce is the right decision for you, speaking with a divorce solicitor will give you some clarity.

Understanding the legal implications of divorce, including the division of assets, child custody and maintenance payments can be tricky. Enlisting a divorce solicitor at this early stage can help you navigate this before making your final decision.

 

When you’ve received a divorce petition from your spouse’s divorce solicitor

 

Perhaps your spouse has filed a petition for divorce without discussing this with you. Although you may be completely blindsided by this, it’s essential to contact a divorce solicitor as soon as possible. A divorce petition will outline the grounds for the divorce and whatever financial claims your spouse is making.

However, your spouse will need to be sure that they have strong grounds for the breakdown of the marriage. You will need to respond to the petition within a specified time frame and your divorce solicitor will be able to assist you in preparing your response and advise you on the next step.

Needless to say, you cannot have the same solicitor as your spouse.

 

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When you’re struggling with child custody issues

 

In situations where there are children involved in the breakdown of a marriage, custody can be the most difficult part of the process. If you’re struggling to find common ground with your spouse on what’s best for your children, then it’s time to speak to your divorce solicitor who can help you negotiate a parenting plan.

Ideally, you would hope to come to an amicable agreement through mediation, rather than going to court. If needed, your divorce solicitor can also represent you in court to fight for your parental rights.

 

When there are complicated financial issues

 

Whether it’s a business, property, investments or pensions, dividing up financial assets can be a complex process. At the end of the day, you need to ensure that your financial assets are protected and your divorce solicitor can advise you on how to best safeguard your financial future.

Once documents are signed, it will be costly not to mention complicated to change, so it’s preferable to have everything done correctly the first time around.

 

If you’re ready to contact a Divorce Solicitor, Summit Law are here to help

 

At Summit Law, we understand that going through a divorce can be a stressful and worrying time. We aim to make this difficult process more straightforward and affordable for you so that you can move forward with the next stage of your life.

We will always strive to resolve your case through mediation as much as possible, sparing you from the financial cost and emotional burden of going to court. However, should your case go to court, you can rest assured we will be on your side every step of the way, with our knowledge and expertise to help you receive a positive outcome.

As an experienced provider of Family Law, we promise to handle your case with discretion, empathy and professionalism.

Contact us today to speak to our expert team who are ready to take your call.

You can also check out our blog and resources for further information relating to Conveyancing, Family Law, Wills & Estate Planning and Probate.

 

When Is The Right Time To Get A Divorce Solicitor? - eBook - SM - Summit Law