It’s possible to stay on good terms when you separate if your separation or divorce is amicable. The Separation Guide Q&A will help you and your partner determine some key factors around amicability.
What is an amicable separation?
An amicable separation doesn’t mean that you and your ex-partner need to remain close or even on friendly terms. It does mean that you’re both interested in an outcome that’s fair and that there’s enough goodwill and trust between you for you to be honest with each other through the process. This especially applies to full disclosure of all of the assets and liabilities to be divided.
If this sounds like you, then your separation can be simpler, less expensive and less emotionally draining.
An amicable separation takes you down a more pleasant path. There’s no need for long expensive court battles, no need to instruct lawyers to be aggressive and demanding, less cost, less angst and easier for everyone. If you feel like you can separate on good terms then the separation becomes a guided negotiation. What we call Guided Separation.
What if we’re no longer amicable?
Animosity between the parties takes you down a different road where a good faith negotiation becomes a more bitter confrontation. This tends to happen when information is not shared or when there is bitterness in the nature of the breakup.
In separating or divorcing, there is no right or wrong path, it depends on the circumstances you are in.
Sometimes there has to be a legal confrontation in order for a party to assert its legal rights – this tends to be the case where there has been a power imbalance in the relationship or where there is a lack of trust. Some separations and divorces can become like trench warfare and this can damage both the separating couple and their family.
Other separations can be done quietly, sensibly and reasonably. The first question is to decide which category you are in.
And so, start the Q&A now to find out the best path for you.
The Separation Guide aims to make separation and divorce simpler, more manageable and less stressful. To find out more about how one of our Network Members could support your separation, take our free 3-minute Q&A.
Disclaimer
The information in our resources is general only. Consider getting in touch with a professional adviser if you need support with your legal, financial or wellbeing needs.
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This 3 minute Q&A explains the information and processes you need to know to save you time, money and stress.
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How much does it cost to get a divorce or separate?
Our research shows that the average cost of separation and divorce in Australia is $21,000 per person. According to Money Magazine, if your matter goes to court, the average cost is between $50,000 and $100,000 and can take up to 3 years. The alternative, done through a fair and equitable pathway such as Guided Separation, can cost as little as $3000 per person to reach an agreement, plus court and filing costs. 85% of The Separation Guide’s clients get through for under $10,000.
