PROMOTION Better to have loved and lost... or is it? There are many urban myths when it comes to separation and divorce, so here are a few clarifications 1. THERE IS NO SUCH THING AS A QUICKIE DIVORCE: When journalists report on celebrity quickie divorces, they are referring to 6. IT IS POSSIBLE TO HAVE A 'NO FAULT' DIVORCE: the pronouncement of the decree nisi Whilstnow under review and hopefully soon to be updated, in open court the mid-point of divorce currently a no fault divorce takes two years if both parties proceedings. A divorce will typically agree and five years if they do not take six months to conclude. attractive destination for the weaker party in a relationship to file for divorce Marie Stock 7. DIVORCE DOES NOT MEAN YOU CANNOT SEE YOUR CHILDREN: 2. PRENUPS AND THE LAW: Prenuptial agreements are not legally bindingin the UK but Whilst contact is usually agreed between separating are essential ifyou want to try and protectassets accumulated couples, ifthey dontagree courts will decide in the child's before beginning a relationship.They hold weight in courts, best interest, which includes who they live with and contact unless one panty can prove they were forced to signarrangements with the other parent. 3. THERE IS NO SUCH THING AS COMMON-LAW HUSBAND OR WIFE: Couples who live together but do not marry do not have the same rights as married couples, includingthe right oclaim for financial support or a share ofpensions on separation. 8. WHAT IF THE OTHER PARTY HAS HIDDEN ASSETS? Ifone party finds out that theirex lied or didn'tfully disclose hei financialcircumstances, they can challenge a divorce settlement in court. 4. THERE IS NO 'MEAL TICKET FOR LIFE: Whilst adivorced wife might expect maintenance for life in some long or high value marriages if she has worked hard raising children with no paid employment for years, courts now expectwives to findemployment to support themselves 9. COURT IS THE LAST RESORT: Many divorces are amicable with both parties in agreement as to who gets what. But even when emotions bubble over, court should be the last resort 5. LONDON IS THE DIVORCE CAPITAL OF THE WORLD: In England and Wales, the starting point for divorce is an equal share of maritalassets. Sothis does makes Londonan 10. COMMUNICATION IS KEY Whether that's communication with your ex over contact arrangements for the children or trying to reach a constructive and amicable settlement-your kids will thank you for it in the future. For more information and legal advice contact Marie Stock. Family lawyer at law firm Coffin Mew CoffinMew 01273032448 mariestock@coffinmew.co.uk