Wealden Times | WT207 | May 2019 | Extensions & Outdoor Living supplement inside

Celebrity Divorces
News of a celebrity divorce can become viral within seconds, but how much truth is there behind
those eye-catching headlines? Let’s look at a few examples:
“The Quickie Divorce”
In 2018, it was reported that Jamie and
Louise Redknapp’s 19-year marriage
was ended in 25 seconds. This led many
to question why their own divorce was
taking months, if not years. Whilst it
is true that 25 seconds is the time it
took a Judge to read out the couple’s
names and pronounce Decree Nisi,
this simply confirms the couple’s right
to divorce and they remain married
until Decree Absolute, which is at
least six weeks and a day later.
However, for many couples, it is
the other issues associated with
divorce such as finances and the
arrangements for children which
significantly lengthen the time frame.
Even celebrity couples can and do
endure months of lengthy negotiations
and, for some, acrimonious court
proceedings, but this unsensational
reality does not sell papers.
“Conscious Uncoupling”
Although the best example of this was
some time ago when Chris Martin
and Gwyneth Paltrow separated,
the concept has not lost its appeal,
as for those navigating the hugely
emotional and often damaging world
of divorce, the idea of separating
in a peaceful and loving way is
understandably very appealing.
I would urge these couples to
consider Collaborative Law, which,
whilst not always the path to a loving
divorce, is a constructive and solicitor
supported approach to deal with
divorce and the associated issues.
“Bifurcated Judgement”
One of the more buzzworthy statements
to come out of the Angelina Jolie and
Brad Pitt divorce, this allows them to
achieve legally recognised single status
whilst they continue to negotiate the
finances and arrangements for the
children. This option is not available
within the UK, but if, for whatever
reason, a couple felt that the time
was not yet right to divorce, it is
possible to legally separate and settle
arrangements, although not all financial
orders are available outside a divorce.
So, the message to any readers is don’t
be taken in by sensationalist headlines,
look behind the façade and take advice
from a sensible divorce lawyer to get
factual information on your options
so that you can make an informed
decision about what is right for you.
If you would like further advice we
offer a free 30-minute meeting.
Please contact our team secretary
Khaila Reid on T: 01892 502 335 or
E: KReid@bussmurton.co.uk
and quote ‘Wealden Times’
Please get in touch with our Family team who will be happy to help.
Melanie den Brinker Margaret Evans Lora Grogan Amanda Jardine-Viner
Julie Taylor
Kristy Underwood
www.bussmurton.co.uk T: 01892 510 222
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