A local Family law firm is reporting an increase in instructions after developing a fixed fee divorce package to suit cash-strapped couples seeking a divorce.
Stephensons Solicitors LLP, based on Silverwell Street in Bolton, offers a fixed-fee divorce service for couples who can separate amicably and quickly, and with the tough economic conditions continuing, the firm has seen an increase in demand for this service.
Victoria Melling, an associate solicitor at Stephensons, is an expert in advising people about their divorces or separations. She said: “It’s a sign of the times that couples going through divorce are opting to use the fixed-fee package to formally go their separate ways.
“Divorce rates may be at an all time low, but the recession last year put an additional strain on people’s relationships and many who wanted to divorce simply could not afford to.
“Now in 2010, with the economy picking up slightly and the value of houses, a key asset in divorce, starting to recover, we are finding that more people are considering a divorce but are opting for the low cost alternative.
“Divorce is sometimes seen as an expensive business, but we will always try to work within clients’ budgets and personal circumstances, which is why for those going through uncomplicated divorces, this service is proving to be very popular.”
The fixed price divorce package includes all steps from initial instructions through to the conclusion of the divorce, for £425 (plus disbursements and VAT).
Stephensons has a Fixed Fee Divorce Instruction Booklet on its website, www.stephensons.co.uk for those who want to use the service. The firm also offers an early morning or after-work appointment system to cope with the growing demand for legal advice.