During these tough times of recession, more and more couples are settling for what we call amicable settlements. Whilst there’s no such thing as a ‘good’ divorce, it seems that there is a new trend for divorcing couples to act much more reasonably with each other to draw to a close what is always an emotional and difficult time for all involved.
Some are calling it the ‘Nigella and Charles’ effect, following the high profile split of television cook Nigella Lawson and her multi-millionaire husband Charles Saatchi. Often such celebrity divorces involve long, drawn-out – and very public – battles through the courts, with plenty of mud-slinging, accusations and point-scoring. Yet Lawson and Saatchi have settled their affairs and divorced with little fuss and, crucially, minimum costs.
It’s an approach that’s becoming increasingly popular as couples seek to limit the time and costs involved in being granted a divorce. With the recession forcing us all to tighten our belts, a quick, amicable settlement is the preferred option for many.
Mediation is an excellent way to agree a divorce settlement without any disputes reaching court. With mediation the spouses can thrash out and agree not just financial arrangements but also settle issues regarding property and access to children. As Family Law specialists, we have extensive expertise in mediation and can help you to reach a mutually agreeable, legally-binding divorce settlement as quickly as possible.
Of course, not every divorce will be settled by mediation and there will be cases where one spouse is determined to drag the other through the courts. But, as Lawson and Saatchi have proved, there is a more dignified way to end a marriage.
As experienced Family Law lawyers we do understand what an emotive experience divorce can be. We are here to offer all the advice and guidance you need to achieve an amicable divorce through mediation. After all, if Nigella and Charles with all their combined wealth can reach an agreement so quickly, let’s hope their amicable divorce can be an inspiration to others. To discuss mediation to achieve a divorce settlement, please call us on 0845 548 1007 for a free 20 minute consultation.