Spikes in relationship breakups and divorce by Chrys Wall

We have all lived with Covid now for 12 months, and we are all hoping that some restrictions will be eased over time so that we can all try and get back to some normality in our lives.

The reality is that Covid has affected many strong relationships because of multiple factors such as work arrangements, home schooling, financial pressures and health. More people are finding themselves trapped in a situation where they are struggling to cope with what is going on for them, as well as what is going on between them as a family. All of this can have an impact on self-esteem, and security for the family. This can then manifest into anxiety, anger and frustration, as well as the increased likelihood of domestic abuse.

 

If you are experiencing relationship difficulties, we at Thomson & Bancks are available to support you in understanding your options at this difficult time in your life, and we will provide advice and guidance to you. Our aim is to give you the reassurance of knowing where you stand and what your options may be in terms of taking things forward. There is undoubtedly a lot to think about when you are going through separation or divorce, and it is imperative that any further action is carried out at your pace and is based around your needs and requirements. You may wish to think through your options before taking matters any further forward which we will understand, and no pressure will be put upon you to make decisions unless you are ready.

Many clients ask if they can apply for a divorce during lockdown and the answer is “yes”, as we at Thomson & Bancks use the online divorce portal, which enables us to lodge a divorce petition online on your behalf. There are less delays with the online divorce application process during the pandemic.

A divorce merely brings a marriage to an end and, of course, there could well be financial matters of any relationship breakup which need to be dealt with, as well as arrangements for the children. We will discuss with you the various methods of resolution, such as how to reach an agreement between yourselves, consider mediation, solicitors’ negotiation, or the courts – although the court process does tend to be a last resort. Many settlements are reached by consent where possible and therefore no court hearing is required. If any financial court hearings or any hearings relating to child arrangements are necessary, they are currently being held remotely via video conference or telephone.

 

Thomson & Bancks are open and many of our Solicitors may be working remotely, but we are available during normal office hours. Whilst we are currently unable to facilitate face to face meetings in lockdown, we can advise you via video call or telephone appointments. We can arrange an initial conversation at a time that suits you to gather basic information, see if we can assist you and then arrange an appointment, explaining our fixed fee appointment that we offer.

 

Thomson & Bancks – Here to help

If you have any concerns, please do not hesitate to contact our Family Department to discuss these matters confidentially. Our friendly and professional team will guide you and point you in the right direction of where to find help.

If you require assistance with any of the issues discussed in this article, please contact Thomson & Bancks Solicitors on:

Pershore 01386 562000
Tewkesbury 01684 299633
Cheltenham 01242 235250
Stratford-upon-Avon 01789 295544

 

Chrys Wall

Chrys is an experienced Solicitor, specialising in Family Law; relationship breakdowns, divorces, financial matters, Children and cases involving domestic violence. She is accredited by the organisation “Resolution”, certified to assist in Financial Provision and Children Law work. Details of the organisation Resolution can be found here.

Click here to learn more about Chrys L Wall

Catch up with Chrys L Wall’s previous blog posts

Helping local Gloucestershire Care Homes
Concerns about domestic violence during the current Coronavirus lockdown? by Chrys Wall
Covid-19 Can children move between households during the COVID-19 crisis?
Celebrating 30 years of loyal service
No-Fault Divorce: What you need to know about the proposed changes by Chrys Wall
Top Tips for Separating Parents, a short film by Resolution
Getting your divorce online? by Chrys Wall
Chrys takes on the 60-mile Thames Path Challenge
Resolution Cohabitation Awareness Week
Chrys’s Home 2 Home Walk for Charity for the Cedar Trust