We’re proud to announce that we have recently become the only firm in the North Staffordshire and Cheshire area to join the divorce online project, which has been set up by the Ministry of Justice. Beeston Shenton is one of only twelve firms in the country to join the project. The divorce online system allows the firm to lodge divorce petitions and get them issued dramatically more quickly than the regular method enables. It will make helping clients through the divorce process much quicker, easier and less stressful.

Paul Shenton is particularly pleased about the new project, saying “We are very pleased to have joined the project and be able to offer this service to our clients. The online divorce scheme will enable us to offer a much more efficient and cost-effective process, which will mean less stress for our clients during a time we know is very difficult for them.”

But what exactly is the new online divorce project, and how can it help you get an easy divorce?

What Is An Online Divorce?

A divorce is the legal separation of a married couple who do not wish to be together anymore. You can file for a divorce for reasons such as desertion, adultery, unreasonable behaviour, or if you have been separated for more than 2 years.

An online divorce gives you the option to file for a divorce with the help of a solicitor through the internet, rather than needing to book in and see a solicitor directly. The new scheme was tested on three individual websites and is now accessible across the whole of the UK. The online service allows you to book an online chat with a solicitor, who will go through the information you need and answer any questions you may have.

While there are free online divorce services available, these do not come with the benefit and advice of a solicitor, making it difficult to resolve any issues that arise during the process. You are alone in dealing with any problems that arise and will end up endlessly searching Google to find the answer you’re looking for.

When dealing with something as important as a divorce, ensuring you’re fully informed and protected is absolutely essential. The new project unites the expertise of a divorce lawyer with the convenience of an online divorce, to create the perfect, fast solution you need.

What Are The Benefits Of An Online Divorce?

One of the biggest benefits of an online divorce is that it is a lot more convenient for you. Getting your divorce online means that you can still get along with your day-to-day activities and work, without constantly having to book in for an appointment at your solicitor’s office.

The process of an online divorce is also step-by-step, which means your online solicitor can walk you through the questions they need you to answer, and if you are unsure of anything they can help you fill it in. Given how many things can go wrong during a divorce when you don’t have the aid of a solicitor, you also have peace of mind that any issues arising will be dealt with by a professional, and you will have expert advice every step of the way.

An online divorce also means that you can take your divorce at your own pace, and you aren’t pressured by any deadlines. Your solicitor will ensure you have time to reflect on certain details and information and they will be available whenever you need them to answer any queries or questions.

What’s The Catch?

One downside of an online divorce is that it may only allow uncontested divorces to be made via an online application. This means that you and your partner will need to agree on all aspects of your divorce, including child support and child arrangements, without mediation or help coming to terms.

Sometimes, if you have children under the age of sixteen, or if you have health problems that mean you need help making financial decisions, you may not be able to get an online divorce. If you have young children or need extra support during your divorce, it is definitely better to gain legal advice from a lawyer directly, so that the process is fair and you can sit down with your solicitor who will talk you through any details you may need to know.

Do I Really Need A Lawyer?

If you are considering getting a divorce online instead of going to visit your local solicitor, then you should use an online divorce service that comes with solicitor advice and information. Without professional support, your divorce may not be valid and you may find yourself in a worse situation that forces you to seek legal council and has escalated beyond the point a solicitor-assisted online divorce is possible.

Having a solicitor assist in your online divorce is more expensive, but worth the extra cash to gain the advantages of the expertise and knowledge you will need for your divorce to run smoothly. The process with a solicitor is generally quicker and less stressful, especially if the other party are opposed to what you have asked for. Your solicitor can also directly speak to the other party to resolve issues without you having to contact them.

For more expert advice and support get in touch and we can help you in starting your divorce process, whether you choose to pay for an online divorce or for a fixed fee appointment with our solicitors.