Love is in the air – and so is divorce!

by Robert Lloyd

It’s St Valentine’s Day on Friday, February 14, and love will be in the air for many.

But there’s a flip side to all the romance – after the stresses and strains of Christmas and the New Year, this is also the season when minds turn to divorce.

Welsh law firm Red Kite Law has five top tips for those about to become part of the stark statistic which says 42 per cent of marriages in England and Wales end in divorce.

“It’s a surprising statistic for many,” said Catrin Griffiths, partner and head of the family department at Red Kite Law.

“Divorce is a daunting and emotional time, so we’ve put together a quick checklist which will help ease any potential pain –

1. Make sure you choose the right solicitor for you. Rapport is important. You need to be able to talk frankly to your solicitor at an emotional time.
2. Get early advice. Know your options before you make any decisions. For example, at Red Kite Law, we offer ‘fixed fee no obligation’ meetings and will guide you through the key issues to consider.
3. Be prepared. Put together a list of questions you may have and look for your marriage certificate! It’ll be needed if you decide to divorce.
4. Be open-minded about alternatives to litigation. Mediation and counselling are available and legal advice can be given in tandem, keeping costs to a minimum (it’s a very holistic approach).
5. Don’t be afraid to ask your solicitor if you don’t understand something. Solicitors will appreciate this is a daunting and emotional time for you. We want to help you reach the best solution.

Mrs Griffiths added: “It is worth bearing in mind that Legal Aid is no longer available except for cases involving domestic abuse or forced marriage, so a cost-effective approach is at the forefront for many prospective clients.

“In my experience, clients want a friendly service with some certainty about what it is all going to cost.”

Red Kite Law covers the Carmarthenshire and Pembrokeshire area with six specialist family solicitors. The firm also has an office in Chepstow. The firm is a member of Resolution, the family law group that advocates a non-confrontational approach to dealing with divorce and other family matters. Red Kite Law has three accredited specialists in the team (Advanced Family law panel and Resolution accredited), recognising the firm’s particular skill and experience. Red Kite Law offers services in Welsh.