Mouthpiece: Divorce is not to be rushed

The start of a new year is traditionally viewed as being the busiest time for divorce lawyers.

With the typical pressures faced by couples over the festive period combining with the anxiety and stress of financial uncertainty in the current economic climate, experts predict divorce levels to rise during 2010.

Add to the mix the increasing use of the internet and social media sites and the chances of divorce are even greater.

Two out of five marriages end in divorce, with an increasing number internet-related, and recent findings highlighting that one in five couples cited Facebook in divorce petitions.

Separation or divorce should not be entered into lightly. There are significant financial and emotional implications to be considered.

One London law firm has launched a divorce voucher scheme. But, if you are not lucky enough to receive vouchers to help with the cost of divorce from friends and family at Christmas, then there is another cost-effective option to consider.

Collaborative practice is without a doubt the most consistently efficient and economical option of all methods of professional conflict resolution. Rather than lawyers sending letters back and forward, couples are holding on to more of their hard-earned cash and working together sorting out any issues amicably with the help of their solicitor.

Divorce also impacts greatly on children, who are faced with the uncertainty that surrounds their parent's separation. Collaborative practice allows clients to put their children's interest to the fore.

It is important for anyone considering a separation or divorce to seek detailed advice before taking any practical steps in relation to financial matters or, more importantly, in relation to the care and maintenance of any children involved.

Cath Karlin is a Partner and Head of Family Law at legal firm HBJ Gateley Wareing.