Don't let a divorce delay cost more than mere money

A legal executive with a Cheshire law firm says that signs are growing that more and more couples are delaying divorce because of the so-called credit crunch.

Heather Miehe, Family Law solicitor of law firm SAS Daniels, says middle-class 30 and 40–somethings are amongst the most likely to be going through a split – but are also amongst the age range most likely to be going through tough times on the finance front.

“They’re staying married, or staying together, because they don’t believe they’ll be able to afford to get divorced – but this is an intensely dangerous situation,” said Heather Miehe.

“The most frustrating and hence potentially most explosive situation is if both parties have decided the marriage is over, but one has been or is already seeing somebody else – there may be perceptions that the new partner could be named in a divorce with all sorts of nasty ramifications.

“Regardless, staying together can build feelings of resentment and bitterness. Generally, the more bad feeling between the couple, the more bitter the divorce becomes, resulting in prolonged argument over finances which will ultimately create bigger costs.

“If children are involved, at best, they will be living in a difficult atmosphere but If domestic violence is also an issue this can be extremely detrimental to children.

“Far better to obtain some legal advice even if it is not immediately acted upon. Just knowing you have a way out can be helpful.

“All solicitors understand and appreciate that fees can be a big issue, particularly for those people who fall just outside the limit for public funding, However, fees can be paid in a number of ways, including credit cards or loans.

“In certain circumstances clients may be able to make a monthly contribution towards their legal costs with the remainder being paid from their settlement.”

SAS Daniels has offices in Stockport, Macclesfield, Congleton, Bramhall and Chester.

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Further information:

Iain Macauley or Megan Codling

07788 978800 / 07795 848586

im@pressrelations.co.uk / mc@pressrelations.co.uk / www.sasdaniels.co.uk

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Further information: Iain Macauley or Megan Codling 07788 978800 / 07795 848586 im@pressrelations.co.uk / mc@pressrelations.co.uk / www.sasdaniels.co.uk