Digital divorce 18 months on – how far has it come?

In May 2018, a new service was launched by the UK Government allowing spouses to apply for divorce proceedings online.

Justice minister Lucy Frazer said the changes would ensure people were best supported “through an often difficult and painful time” while moving to online systems would “cut waste, speed up services which can be safely expedited, and otherwise better fit with modern day life.”

Reflecting on the progress of the scheme 18 months on, Danny Hudson, partner and family law solicitor at Warrington-based Watsons Solicitors, said that while online processing does simplify applications, there are still many elements to consider.

The divorce specialist and member of the Law Society Family Law Panel said: “Granting access to information and the ability for people to process the divorce themselves has been a sign of progress.

“The public have always been able to do that in the same way that they could file their own accounts but instruct an accountant to do it for them.

“Family law is complex and there are huge issues which cross boundaries of legal statute if you are divorced or not.

“For example, are spouses aware of the impact that divorce has on inheritance? Are they aware of the impact on their ability to make an application for maintenance pending suit if they are divorced?

“There are many facets to a divorce which need to be considered not simply the completion of the divorce itself. The financial ramifications can be huge.

“If in doubt always seek professional advice before considering starting proceedings.”

Watsons Solicitors, which has been established for more than 60 years, specialises in family law, employment law, wills and probate, and conveyancing.

The team of experienced solicitors each hold various accreditations and memberships of professional bodies relevant to their expertise, while the firm’s partners oversee all areas of work.

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