I think I want a divorce – when should I let my spouse know?

The end of a relationship and the inevitable divorce can be a distressing and upsetting time for both parties.

Emotions can run high and it’s often difficult to see a way through.

It’s never too early to get specialist divorce advice, even if you are only thinking about ending your relationship and haven’t yet told your spouse. Obtaining advice from an independent solicitor can help to inform you of your options so you understand what will happen if you decide to end the relationship with your spouse and begin the divorce proceedings.

Getting this independent legal advice at an early stage is also extremely important if you are a high net worth individual or your divorce proceedings could be filed in another jurisdiction. In England and Wales, it makes no difference if it’s you or your spouse who file for divorce. However, this is not the case in other countries and you could end up severely disadvantaged if your spouse files for divorce in another country before you.

If you have complex international investments and assets it is also worth getting advice as to what could happen to your finances as early as possible. Austin Kemp’s experienced team can advise you on any financial freezing orders or injunctions that may be necessary – this can be done even before your spouse is informed of the divorce proceedings.

For more information on this subject please visit our Legal Library.

Contact us to see how we can help you with your divorce

For more information on your options call our team on 0845 862 5001 or email mail@austinkemp.co.uk.

We have client meeting office facilities available, in order to have face-to-face client meetings / conferences as and when required in London WC2N 4JF and Manchester M2 4PD. Please contact us for more details.