How long does an uncontested separation take?
Usually a few months, if you agree on everything. Assisted negotiation closes faster because it doesn't go before a judge; with court approval the timescale stretches and depends on the registry's workload. What really moves the timeline isn't the procedure: it's how many points are still open between you.
And a contested one?
Considerably longer, and it is impossible to give an honest figure in advance: it depends how many issues are disputed, whether expert evidence is needed, and on the court's own timescales. What matters is that interim measures — maintenance, children, the home — are in place from the first hearing, so you are not left exposed meanwhile.
How much does a separation cost?
It depends on three things: whether you reach an agreement or go before a judge, how complex the assets are, and whether there are children. At the first consultation we assess your case and give you a written quote before we start: there are no costs you discover later.
Can you divorce without separating first?
In certain cases set out by law, yes. Otherwise a period of separation comes first: six months if uncontested, twelve if contested. At the first consultation we check which situation applies to you.
What happens to the home we live in?
Where there are children, the criterion is their interests: the home is assigned to the parent they mainly live with, regardless of who owns it. Without children, the home follows title. It is one of the points that can be settled in the separation agreement.
Do we need a lawyer each, or is one enough?
In assisted negotiation the law requires one for each party: it is a safeguard for both, because each of you must be advised by someone answerable only to you. Before the court, in an uncontested case, a single lawyer is permitted — but it should be assessed case by case, and where interests diverge we advise against it.
What is attribution of fault, and when is it worth seeking?
It is a declaration that the breakdown of the marriage is one party's responsibility, for example through infidelity or desertion. Whoever it is attributed to loses the right to maintenance and certain inheritance rights. It is not automatic: it must be proven that the conduct caused the breakdown, rather than resulting from a crisis already under way.
My ex isn't paying maintenance: what can I do?
There are concrete tools: from third-party attachment — that is, directly on the salary — to an order requiring the employer to pay your share to you. In the most serious cases non-payment is also a criminal offence. The earlier you act, the easier it is to recover.
Can terms agreed years ago be changed?
Yes, if something concrete has changed: the income of either party, the children's needs, a new cohabitation, a relocation. It is called variation of arrangements, and since 2023 the procedure is simpler than before.
One of us lives abroad: does that change things?
It changes the first step: you need to establish which court has jurisdiction and which law applies. That is not a technicality — it can make a considerable difference to the outcome. We handle cases with international elements and start from exactly that point.