Getting divorced is a stressful process, and misinformation can add to the worry. Divorcing couples need to know fact from fiction. Here are some pointers to dispel common myths.
1 Who pays?
Often, people wrongly believe that the main earner has to shell out for the divorce. Usually, both parties pay their own costs unless a court dictates otherwise. Sometimes the person who begins the divorce can claim what it costs to legally dissolve the marriage from their spouse.
2 What about the house?
It’s wrong to assume that the man always leaves the family house, or that it has to be sold. The key factor is the husband’s, wife’s and children’s needs.
If children are involved, one parent might stay to supply some continuity, The other may agree to receive other assets or to take their share when the children are older.
If you are seeking divorce solicitors Manchester offers firms including https://bridgelawsolicitors.co.uk/offices/knutsford/.
The government offers some guidance for consideration – https://www.gov.uk/money-property-when-relationship-ends/tax.
3 Agreement to divorce
Many people believe that both partners have to agree to get a divorce. However, a spouse can get a divorce even if their partner wants to stay married. Legal agreement to proceed is only needed when the couple has been separated for two years.
When both parties are in agreement, divorce is a quicker, cheaper and a more amicable process.
4 Financial settlements
Divorce costs on average £5,300, although many believe the figure is £10,000. In fact, the average person takes four years and 10 months to financially recuperate after divorce.
Many people think that assets are shared out 50/50, but there is no such formula. While equal sharing is a starting point, many other factors shape the financial resolution. A court may decide if a couple can’t agree.
5 How long?
Many believe that divorces take years to sort out. However, ending a marriage through a divorce can take just four to six months to finish – it may take longer if financial matters are not agreed. The average time taken to reach a financial settlement is around a year.
6 Irreconcilable differences
Many people wrongly believe that divorces can be granted if the couple has ‘irreconcilable differences’. However, this is an American legal concept. ‘Irretrievable breakdown’ is the UK sole ground for divorce.