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Ending a civil partnership: getting help with the process
There are a variety of places you can get help if you are ending a civil partnership, including solicitors and professional mediators.
Getting legal advice
You do not have to use a solicitor; many couples get a dissolution without consulting a solicitor. But you may need legal advice if there are children, financial or other issues involved.
Sorting out the financial aspect of the dissolution is known as 'ancillary relief'. It is not the case that property is automatically divided in a 50/50 split. If you do go to court the judge will consider a number of factors when deciding who should get what, but the needs of any children will always be the main consideration.
The Citizens Advice Bureau can help you fill in the necessary forms, and can help you find a solicitor, if you need one.
Mediation
If you are willing to communicate and negotiate with your ex-partner about issues such as your children’s care and splitting property and finances, then mediation may help you work out solutions between you and avoid arguments and expense. You can ask a trained family mediator to act as an impartial third party; they will help couples come to an agreement without bias or being on anyone’s ‘side’.
You can find mediation services in your area by visiting the Family Mediation Helpline website, or by calling the Family Mediation Helpline on 0845 60 26 627.
