DIY Divorce Couples Could Be Hit Hard By The Form E Error21st Dec 2015
Worried after reading news stories about the government’s error on divorce Form E? Fearful it might have affected your divorce settlement?
Don’t panic. Our divorce solicitors spotted the ministry’s error at the outset and routinely prepare separate paperwork to ensure that summaries of each party’s financial circumstances are correct.
So our clients will not be affected. But some people may be…litigants in person (those who choose to represent themselves in court).
We sympathise with anyone forced to go court without proper legal representation.
Lack of money is the obvious reason that some decide to go it alone. Without Legal Aid, they now have to pay the solicitors’ fees, court charges and tax themselves.
Fear you can’t afford a solicitor? The reality is that you can’t afford not to have one. Not when so much is at stake and the legal costs are comparatively modest.
The average legal bill for the divorce procedure is just over £1,000. That is around £500 for the solicitor and about £500 in court fees plus tax. Other costs for more complicated work are often a very small proportion of the value of the dispute.
Is it really worth attempting a ‘do it yourself divorce’ just to save £500? Splitting up is stressful enough without the extra worry of having to handle all the casework yourself.
Think about what you could lose: access to your children; half of everything you own; your peace of mind.
But not every litigant in person is going it alone because they want to save money. Some have effectively been duped into doing so by soon-to-be-ex partners with a vested interest.
Has your ex ever said something along the lines of: “Let’s keep it simple. You don’t really need a solicitor do you?”
Beware! They may have an ulterior motive - such as hiding assets.
As professional family law solicitors with decades of experience we can help stop you from falling victim to practices such as this. We can help you to secure a fair financial settlement.
Need help? For sympathetic and expert legal advice on separation, divorce and dissolution of civil partnerships, contact family law solicitor and mediator Richard Perrins at Coles Miller’s Broadstone office, 01202 355698.
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This document is not intended to constitute and should not be used as a substitute for legal advice on any specific matter. No liability for the accuracy of the content of this document, or the consequences of relying on it, is assumed by the author. If you seek further information, please contact Managing Partner Neil Andrews at Coles Miller Solicitors LLP.
