Katie and Peter 'model divorce couple'

The Law Society is recommending that divorcing couples follow the lead of TV celebrities Katie and Peter by seeking expert legal advice from specialist family law solicitors to achieve the best possible outcome for both parties and their children.

The headline divorce case finalised last month of model Katie Price (aka Jordan) and singer Peter Andre, whose romance first caught the public attention on jungle based ‘I’m a Celebrity Get Me Out of Here’ in 2004, comes as many couples are reaching breaking point due to pressures related the economic downturn.

The Law Society is advising anyone facing the prospect of divorce to seek expert legal advice from a specialist family law solicitor who can also introduce legal mediation and other options to avoid divorce cases going to court.

Robert Heslett, Law Society President explains that a specialist family law solicitor will ensure that no important issues have been overlooked and all agreements are properly documented, "Divorce is stressful, the legalities can be complicated and emotions can cloud reasoning, so it is important to consult an expert from the outset to receive independent, impartial, objective advice from someone who will steer you clear of the legal pitfalls and safeguard your interests."

He reiterates that the reality is that the absence of an experienced specialist family lawyer in a family case puts the client at a significant disadvantage and slows down the legal process.

Carol Maher, local specialist in family law at Clitheroe based practice Chenery Maher Solicitors explains "The legal formality of getting a divorce is a relatively straightforward process. What is generally much more complex is sorting out the practical issues such as where each person will live, how the assets are divided, and arrangements for any children. So before agreeing matters with your partner we can advise you about your rights and the options available to you. We can also explain some of the financial complexities and help you identify the issues that the court will consider, give tactical advice and save you time and money in the long run."

Carol’s approach is to try to avoid a case necessarily having to go through to a court hearing and introduces other options such as mediation which is available within the Clitheroe practice.  She adds, “Our priority is not to cause unnecessary acrimony but to strive to resolve matters amicably if possible so as to save costs and reduce distress, but where necessary we carry divorce cases through to court to achieve a successful outcome for our clients.”

In keeping with this holistic approach, a counselling service is also available at the practice to help clients come to terms with their changing circumstances.

Ends

Notes to editors:
The Law Society also provides a free guide to helping you know your rights when contemplating divorce. www.lawsociety.org.uk/choosingandusing/commonlegalproblems/divorce.page
The Setting up a Business Guide is available at the Law Society website. Visit http://www.lawsociety.org.uk/choosingandusing/commonlegalproblems/settingupbusiness.page
For more information on local mediation counseling visit - http://www.chenerymaher.co.uk/counsellor.htm

For more information on local family law specialist Carol Maher, visit - http://www.chenerymaher.co.uk/family.htm

Media contact:
Jane Ellison-Bates at Manifest Marketing Ltd.,
t: 01756 751975, e: jane@manifestmarketing.co.uk , w: www.manifestmarketing.co.uk