insideKENT Magazine Issue 71 - February 2018 | Page 128

stowe Family Law LLP Divorce: Does It Have To Be a Battle? willing to talk calmly and rationally, with the assistance of a mediator, about what would be the best result for you both – and any children you have – this option can be very helpful. Another option is arbitration. This is similar to the court process, but you both have to agree to engage in it. Also, while you do have to pay for the services of an arbitrator the process is usually much faster than waiting months for a court hearing. Getting a divorce can be an emotionally difficult time for everyone involved. If a marriage has reached this point, it is almost a certainty that there will be points of conflict between spouses. The very nature of divorce appears to be combative. As the law stands, if you want a divorce without waiting two years you can only demonstrate the irretrievable breakdown of your marriage by assigning blame. This can take the form of unreasonable behaviour, adultery or desertion. An amicable split is possible if you and your partner are willing to approach the end of your marriage calmly and rationally. It is important that you maintain a constructive relationship with your partner, especially if you have children. Stowe Family Law can help you end your marriage in the most cost-effective and level-headed way possible. If you want to talk to us about your options, call us on 01892 620 990 or email [email protected] We are always willing to help. So is an expensive, protracted and bitter dispute the only way to get through a divorce? No. There are less confrontational and less costly ways to bring your marriage to an end. At Stowe Family Law, our solicitors can work with both you and your spouse to find an amicable solution which avoids a lengthy court battle. We can help draw up a fair agreement and get it approved by the court. We have years of experience negotiating such agreements and can guide you through what may seem like choppy waters. Mediation is one possibility. If you and your spouse are Tunbridge Wells, Alpha House, 2A Frant Road, Kate Rayner Managing Partner 01892 620 990