While many divorces need the intervention of the courts, it's possible to reach an agreement without attending, known as an out of court divorce. We can help you to reach a fair and sensible agreement with your spouse, which is then made legal and binding by the courts.
While you will always need the court to deal with your divorce, which includes obtaining the decree nisi and the decree absolute, you do not need to attend court for your divorce. The same applies to a divorce settlement. If you agree the terms, you can submit your consent order to the court but you do not need to attend court in person.
An 'out of court' divorce is simply one in which you and your spouse negotiate the terms between you, usually with expert legal guidance to make sure that you are both being treated fairly.
Reaching an out of court divorce settlement in the UK is easier when your circumstances make a fair division of assets straightforward. For example, if you have only been married for a few years, earn similar amounts of money and have no children together, it is usually possible to simply split the value of any assets when you go your separate ways.
Naturally, this becomes more difficult if one spouse feels that their financial contribution has been greater, or provision needs to be made for financial support or child arrangements.
However, contested financial proceedings can be lengthy and expensive for both parties. Settling a divorce out of court with the help of experienced divorce lawyers is often better than arguing in court and leaving it to a judge to decide matters for you.
What happens if my financial arrangements go to court?
Most arguments about financial settlement never go to court, largely because your lawyer will often advise you that starting litigation over finances or child arrangements is almost always a 'lose-lose' situation for both parties. It is almost always possible to agree an out of court divorce settlement without the need for fully contested proceedings.
If you have contested proceedings, this can be traumatic and costly. It can also leave a bad feeling which makes it difficult to continue talking to each other about children after everything has concluded.
A no court divorce is always our recommendation, except perhaps in cases where violence is an issue, or where one party is clearly trying to hide assets that should be shared.
In any case, divorce courts require that you have at least attempted to go through a Mediation Information and Assessment Meeting (MIAM) prior to issuing formal court proceedings.
Why choose Slater and Gordon's experienced out of court solicitors?
Even in the most amicable out of court divorces, it can be hard to make sure that the divorce financial settlement is fair to both parties. It often takes a willingness to compromise on both sides, which is when the advice of experienced family lawyers is invaluable.
The best solicitors to fight your corner! I struggled with a nasty unmarried couple dispute alone for over a year before biting the bullet and paying for proper legal support. I had one previous experience with a cheaper less well known solicitor and I just felt completely let down and not a priority. But with S&G - from start to finish, I felt supported 100% and valued.
B L (family and personal matters case)
Matters were dealt with efficiently with a view to keeping costs to a realistic level and I am well satisfied with the final settlement she managed to achieve on my behalf.
J B (family and personal matters case)
For anyone needing help with family issues I could not recommend Slater and Gordon highly enough. I always had the feeling I had the best looking after my interests and they certainly didn't disappoint.
C I (family and personal matters case)
We are an award-winning law firm and have a dedicated team of family solicitors to advise and guide you – no matter how complex your situation may be.
Affordability and advice
We offer affordable, expert legal advice on divorce and child arrangements. Book a consultation for clear guidance and next steps. Our assessment helps you understand your situation and make informed decisions. Consultation charged at £150 for 45 minutes.
Tailored advice
We understand that family situations differ – so we are able to provide tailored advice and guidance to suit your individual needs.
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We are a national law firm, with legal experts available locally across the UK. Meetings can be arranged via telephone or video call, to suit your requirements.
The best solicitors to fight your corner! I struggled with a nasty unmarried couple dispute alone for over a year before biting the bullet and paying for proper legal support. I had one previous experience with a cheaper less well known solicitor and I just felt completely let down and not a priority. But with S&G - from start to finish, I felt supported 100% and valued. B L (family and personal matters case)