The number of divorces in England and Wales increased by 4.9% in 2010 according to official figures. This was the first increase for 8 years after a period of a drop in the rate of divorce.

After Christmas is a common time for couples to decide that their marriage is at an end and to issue divorce proceedings.

However, it is absolutely essential to couples who decide to divorce that they consider the cost of the divorce process and try to keep that cost to an absolute minimum.

Most solicitors offer a free initial appointment and it would be silly not to take up such an offer to get some advice as to the procedure involved in relation to divorce, the financial consequences of divorce and most importantly, arrangements for your children upon divorce.

Many firms offer fixed price divorce packages and these can be undertaken online however, it would be most sensible to take up an appointment with a solicitor to get some advice before you decide that this is the way to proceed. The National Family Law Practice offer fixed price packages that are run completely from beginning to end by a qualified solicitor. This offers the opportunity to utilise a fixed price package but to have the security of knowing that a fully qualified solicitor is running your file and should any problems arise there is somebody experienced there to talk to at each step of the process. At the National Family Law Practice we also have a qualified mediator who can talk to you about mediation as an option to sort out problems regarding children and financial matters.

Although it might feel that starting divorce proceedings is overwhelming, if you make an appointment at the National Family Law Practice you will be given advice, support and assistance throughout the process that you embark on, helping you to manage the procedure as well as the financial cost to yourself.