When to get legal advice about a divorce

A solicitor can help you throughout the divorce, and with related matters such as buying or selling property or writing a new will. But you do not have to use a solicitor for every stage of the divorce process if you do not want to or cannot afford to.

Getting legal advice early on can help you decide how much support you need, and at what stage in the process.

You should seek legal advice as soon as possible if you:

• are at risk of domestic violence or being made homeless
• are unsure what would be a fair settlement
• have a lot of assets – for example, property or investments
• are not being allowed enough access to your children by your ex-partner
• are in a vulnerable financial position compared with your ex-partner
• got married abroad, or you, your ex-partner or your children have non-UK nationality