HOW TO AVOID A MESSY SPLIT

New laws have seen a sharp increase in divorce rates, which makes managing mental health even more vital

- SANDRA WALSH AND SUSANNA GALTON

Millions of us were gripped by the tragic story of warring divorce lawyers Hannah and Nathan in BBC smash-hit The Split. We also witnessed the kids’ emotional response to their dad Nathan moving on with his pregnant new partner, child psychologist Kate. This was no Gwyneth Paltrow and Chris Martin-style “conscious uncoupling” – it was painful, dirty and realistic.

But divorce laws are now being updated, in an effort to make an already-painful process less traumatic. The new “no-fault” law was introduced in England and Wales last month and some 3,000 separation applications have been filed as a result – a 50% increase*. Jonny Hurst, former law firm partner and senior lecturer at BPP University Law School, explains what the change means…

GOODBYE BLAME GAME

Previously, it was a legal requirement for a couple to assign blame for the divorce. But now one partner, or both acting together, can file for it without needing to do this. It makes it easier to agree on finances, assets and the future of the children. One in five British adults admit to an affair. Ending the blame game will help people rebuild their lives and protect children. A clean break without the drama and mess. This change also applies to civil partnership dissolution.

TIME FOR REFLECTION

● A minimum time frame of 20 weeks between the application being submitted and the final order being applied for has also been introduced. This reflection period allows a chance for couples to agree future practical arrangements where reconciliation is not possible and divorce is inevitable.