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Amazing experience
After placing an enquiry, I received a call 20 minutes later, and then 2 hours later, I had a solicitor assigned to me. They were absolutely incredible right from the word go - amazing and very prompt with replies, answering all my questions and keeping the process moving. We finally completed today and I am so unbelievably happy. I wouldn’t hesitate to use Lawhive again in the future if needed.
Lily
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I initially made an online enquiry about a tricky conveyancing matter and received an immediate call back. They understood straight away what was needed and gave me a quote that was very reasonable. It was such a pleasure to find someone who was cheerful, professional and completely reassuring as I’d been getting quite anxious about the sale of my house. The service Lawhive has provided is absolutely first class and I cannot recommend them enough.
Charles
Empathetic, professional and efficient
I am an executor, selling my mother's home. I found the assistance I received from Lawhive first rate - empathetic, professional and efficient.
Mark
Great service from Lawhive
We used Lawhive for our conveyancing needs and our solicitor was very helpful, patient and informative. She helped us with our needs with prompt responses and provided a very efficient service.
Kelvin
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Our solicitor was warm, friendly and provided crystal clear communication. A lot of conveyancers assume customers know everything about the process already, so it was really appreciated to hear each stage included in the price given.
Em
Quick and efficient
We used Lawhive for a transfer of property and conveyancing. Our solicitor was so helpful and thorough with the whole process. He responded quickly and efficiently to any questions or requests that we had and explained some of the more complicated issues regarding the process clearly.
Geri
Fantastic service and experience with Lawhive
I had the pleasure of working with Lawhive doing a transfer of equity on a property. Our solicitor’s service was amazing, she responded quickly to any questions or concerns and kept me updated throughout the process. I can strongly recommend her for any conveyancing work that you may need. Fantastic service all round.
Jane
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01 overview
In 2022, no-fault divorces were introduced alongside an online system allowing couples to apply for divorce together or separately. Many couples reach agreements on dividing their finances without court involvement. However, to make these agreements legally binding and prevent future claims, it's important to get a consent order.
A consent order formalises the financial settlement agreement between you and your ex, cutting financial ties. It's advisable to seek legal advice to ensure fairness before applying for one. Once approved, the terms can't be changed without mutual agreement.
At Lawhive, our divorce solicitors can help with all matters related to consent orders, including:
A consent order is a legal document that outlines how you and your ex-spouse or civil partner will divide assets like pensions, property, savings, and investments. It can also include arrangements for things like child maintenance.
Yes, you can get divorced without a consent order, but it’s not advisable, even if you don’t have shared assets. If you get divorced without a consent order, a former partner may be able to make a future claim. A consent order prevents this from happening.
You can apply for a consent order after receiving a conditional order (formally a decree nisi), but it’s only legally binding after the court approves it and you get a final divorce order (formally decree absolute).
To apply for a consent order, you and your ex-partner should:
Usually, there's no court hearing after applying for a consent order. Instead, a judge will review the order and approve it if they think it's fair. They may request changes if needed.
If you can't agree on a consent order you can continue with court proceedings or withdraw your application.
Rejecting a consent order should be done with caution, however, as court proceedings can be costly. Seeking advice from lawyers or mediators can often help negotiate a fair financial settlement without going to court.
If all attempts to settle financial matters fail, the next step is to apply to the court for a Financial Order, also known as Ancillary Relief.
A consent order and a clean break order both help to separate the finances of separating couples.
A clean break order completely ends financial ties between ex-partners, while a consent order outlines agreed financial arrangements, which may include ongoing commitments like property or pension division, such as a Mesher Order.
A clean break order is best for couples with few assets to divide, as it prevents future claims on new assets. However, it may not suit couples with ongoing financial responsibilities. On the other hand, a consent order documents all agreed financial terms after divorce, covering things like property and pension division, offering a detailed record of the settlement.
After the judge approves and seals the order, it's posted to both parties, usually taking 2-4 weeks. However, if the judge requests more information or doesn't approve the order, finalising it might take longer, possibly involving a hearing.
Couples aiming to obtain a consent order should ideally settle their financial matters as soon as possible. However, if one party contests the proposed settlement, the process can be prolonged until an agreement is reached or the court makes a decision.
When a consent order is being drafted, changes can be made by either party negotiating terms. However, once a judge approves and seals it, it's legally binding and usually can't be altered unless:
If you suspect grounds for challenge, seek legal advice promptly.
Both parties may agree to deviate from the consent order. If so, the original order must be reviewed, revised, and resubmitted for court approval.
At Lawhive, our divorce lawyers are here to help you get a consent order quickly and affordably. For more information and a free no-obligation case evaluation and fixed-fee quote for drafting a consent order or any other service related to consent orders, get in touch with our legal assessment team today.
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