What do divorce papers look like?
If you are the respondent to a divorce or civil partnership dissolution application, you will receive a copy of the application—commonly referred to as divorce papers—from HM Courts and Tribunals Service. This may arrive either by email or by post.
What is included in the divorce papers?
The divorce papers, also known as the divorce application, formally initiate divorce proceedings. This document outlines the key details of your marriage and sets out the basis upon which the divorce is being sought. It contains:
- Case Reference Number: A unique identifier for the proceedings.
- Date of Issue: The date when the divorce process began.
- Applicant(s): Information about who initiated the divorce.
- Respondent: Identification of the other party involved (in this case, you).
- Marriage Details: Names of both parties, where the marriage took place, and the date of the marriage.
- Grounds for Divorce: Since April 2022, the sole reason for divorce in England and Wales is the irretrievable breakdown of the marriage.
- Financial Orders: A section indicating whether the applicant intends to seek a financial order.
- Legal Correspondence: Contact details for solicitors involved, so that any official communications can be directed appropriately.
- Contact Information: Addresses and other contact details for both the respondent and the applicant(s).
- Statement of Truth: A declaration that the applicant believes all the provided information is correct.
Need Advice? Contact HM & Co. Solicitors
At HM & Co. Solicitors, we specialise in guiding clients through divorce and dissolution processes with clarity and confidence. If you have received divorce papers and need legal advice, contact our experienced team today.
HM & Co. Solicitors
186 Lower Road
Surrey Quays
London SE16 2UN
Telephone: 02071128180
Email: info@hmsolicitorsltd.com
We are here to help you understand your situation and protect your interests every step of the way.
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I have been using HM & Co. Solicitors since Feb 2020 for my Non-Molestation order and Child Arrangements proceedings. Since using them I have had two amazing solicitors on my case, Felicia and Ayesha.
This has been the first time I have ever been to court and had been quite nervous, especially due to the sensitivity of the proceedings. Felicia and Ayesha have been nothing but patient, professional and understanding.
I have felt very supportive and reassured throughout the proceedings and they have made sure that I understand what is going on throughout all the hearings.
If anyone is ever needing of legal help relating to Domestic Violence or Child Arrangements, I will always recommend HM & Co. Solicitor, Felicia and Ayesha.
Thank you again for all your help and support!
Love to say a massive thank you to HM & Co.Solicitors for a job well done on my two cases, really excited with the way my case was handle by Miss Daisy was amazing with good communication with client, very supportive, professional. I will recommend them to anyone experiencing legal/family issues and need legal advice/support. Miss O Adesina.
HM & Co. Solicitors are so helpful from receptionists right to the solicitors. I've had a few applications made to the court, which includes a non molestation order, recovering my son's passport from his dad and also arranging visits and Felicia is such a professional, organised solicitor who knows her staff so well. She is a blessing and willing to help. She thinks outside the box, and finds solutions in the blink of an eye! Besides her expertise in this field, she will not hesitate to speak up and stand firm when necessary. I am very grateful for her and the company who are so supportive and helpful. Highly recommend!
HM & Co. Solicitors provided an excellent service when supporting us to purchase a flat (where we are first time buyers).
Michael, our solicitor, explained the process clearly so it was not stressful, and acted efficiently to speed up the process. He also ensured we did not exchange immediately due to uncertainty over building works, which saved us a lot of money in the long-run. His judgement calls were excellent and ensured we came out with the best deal possible. I would not hesitate to work with HM &Co Solicitors again.
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I entered the HM & Co Solicitors on Lower Road in what can only be described as a highly agitated state. I had been told a variety of information from another company and had been told I needed services from a solicitor. After explaining my situation to the gentleman I now know as Mr Hakeem Ayantayo (solicitor) he advised me that I did not need his services and to offer them to me for monetary gain would be against good public practise. He offered me friendly advice and even briefly spoke on the phone to the other company who were trying to make things difficult for me. Ultimately the situation I was in was resolved due to Mr Ayantayo and his due diligence. Mr Ayantayo could have taken advantage of my ignorance and lack of lawful knowledge but instead showed me kindness and support all while not fleecing me! Which in this day and age is a rarity! My sincere thanks to Mr Ayantayo and his lovely secretary you have restored my faith in not only the local business community but people in general.
Your Questions, Answered
FAQs
A step by step guide to getting a divorce
How do I respond to a divorce petition?
It’s essential to seek guidance from a specialist divorce solicitor who can help you navigate the complexities of the process. At HM & Co. Solicitors, we offer a free initial consultation to discuss your options, whether that involves mediation, collaborative law, arbitration, or a traditional solicitor-led approach. Many clients report feeling a great sense of relief after their first conversation with a divorce lawyer.
What about child arrangements?
If you have children, it’s crucial to consider their living and visitation arrangements. If you and your ex-partner cannot agree, a family lawyer can help negotiate terms and, if necessary, seek a legally binding order. In the UK, the welfare of the child is the court’s top priority, and maintaining relationships with both parents is considered beneficial unless evidence suggests otherwise.
How should I organise my finances?
Begin by gathering information about both your own and your ex-partner’s financial circumstances. This includes details of property, bank accounts, investments, pensions, mortgages, loans, and debts. Although you don’t need exact figures immediately, having a clear financial overview helps you and your solicitor develop a plan that can lead to the best possible financial outcome.
Should I talk to my spouse?
Open communication can be valuable. You and your ex-partner may be able to reach informal agreements on some issues, such as child custody, while seeking professional advice to settle more complex financial matters. Discussing matters directly can help you feel more in control and potentially reduce legal costs. However, before finalising any agreement, consult with a divorce specialist to ensure that you fully understand your rights and that the terms are fair and appropriate for your situation.
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