Oerton Simm

01/09/2026

This is one of the first questions many people ask us and that’s understandable.
When life feels uncertain, having a clearer idea of the timeline can help.

In England and Wales, there are two minimum waiting periods:

✔️20 weeks from the court issuing the application before you can apply for the conditional order
✔️Six weeks and one day from the conditional order before you can apply for the final order

So even a straightforward divorce will take several months.

It can take longer if there are delays, paperwork needs correcting, someone does not respond promptly, or financial matters are still being resolved.

It’s also important to remember that the divorce timetable and financial settlement timetable are not always the same.

Understanding what happens at each stage can make the process feel a little more manageable.

Need some clarity about your next step? Talk to Oerton Simm when you’re ready.
Please call us at Oerton Simm on 01823 259449, email us at [email protected] or find us at https://www.oertonsimm.co.uk/support/contact-us/

25/08/2026

Did you know there was a legal difference between separation and divorce?
Living apart and being divorced are not the same thing.

It sounds simple, but it’s something that can cause a lot of confusion when a relationship comes to an end.

You might know that you want to separate, but that doesn’t necessarily mean you’re ready to divorce.

And that’s okay.

There are different options, and understanding them can help you feel a little more in control of what happens next.

We’ve broken down separation, judicial separation and divorce in the reel, in straightforward language, so you can see the difference without being overwhelmed by legal terminology.

There is no single right route for every family. What matters is understanding what each option means for you before deciding on your next step.

👉 Watch out reel for a simple overview.

If you’re unsure which option may be right for your circumstances, a conversation can often help make things clearer.

18/08/2026

The hardest part of divorce can be the uncertainty.

There may be worries about the future, finances, family life and what happens next. It is completely understandable to feel overwhelmed.

Clear legal advice can help make the situation feel more manageable. It allows people to understand their options and take the process one step at a time. Please do contact us if you need that down to earth legal advice.

Support from family, friends or a counsellor can also make a real difference.

What support do you think people need most during a separation?

12/08/2026

When a marriage ends, “fair” does not always mean splitting everything equally.

That can feel confusing, especially when you are worried about the family home, pensions, savings or your future financial security.

A sensible place to begin is with full and honest financial disclosure. Both people need a clear picture of the finances before fair proposals can be considered.

Some couples reach an agreement through discussion, solicitor-led negotiation or mediation. Once an agreement is reached, it will usually need to be recorded in a consent order and approved by the court to make it legally binding.

It is important not to agree to something simply because you feel under pressure to “get it over with”.

It is okay to pause, ask questions and understand the long-term impact before making a decision.

Q. Which part of divorce finances feels most uncertain: the house, pensions, savings or future income?

05/08/2026

Not sure what happens during a divorce?

The process can feel confusing at first, especially when you are already dealing with the emotional side of a relationship ending.

This reel explains the main stages of divorce in England and Wales, in simple terms, so you can understand what happens and when.

Every family is different, but having clear information can make the next step feel more manageable.

Q. Which stage of the divorce process would you like us to explain in more detail?

29/07/2026

What are your thoughts? Is a prenup a sensible financial conversation before marriage?

Prenuptial agreements are becoming increasingly common as more couples choose to discuss their finances openly before getting married.

These conversations can feel uncomfortable, but making decisions while a relationship is strong can help both people understand where they stand. A carefully prepared prenup can provide clarity around property, savings, businesses, inheritances and other financial arrangements.

This BBC article explores why more couples are considering prenups and the importance of taking independent legal advice.

Read the BBC article:
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/articles/cgmkgvy3lv4o

For advice about prenuptial agreements, contact our family law team at Oerton Simm.

More young couples are now signing prenups to set out who gets what in the event of divorce.

28/07/2026

Sometimes, the smallest gestures mean the most. 💙

Recently, Vic and I enjoyed a wonderful afternoon tea at The Castle Hotel in Taunton, thanks to a very thoughtful gift from one of our clients.

Receiving a voucher like this was completely unexpected, and we're incredibly grateful for their kindness. It was a lovely opportunity to take a little time out and enjoy a catch-up together.

Family law often means supporting people through some of life's most challenging moments, so it means a great deal when clients take the time to let us know we've made a difference.

To everyone who has trusted us, recommended us, or simply said "thank you" over the years – we truly appreciate it. Your support means more than you might realise.

Laura
Legal Secretary, Oerton Simm Family Law

21/07/2026

Wedding season is in full swing. 💍

But alongside the guest list, flowers and table plans, have you considered a pre-nuptial agreement?

It may not feel romantic, but it is not about expecting the worst. It is about being open, protecting both people fairly and starting married life with clarity. A simple conversation can often make the subject feel much easier.

Is this something you would feel comfortable discussing before marriage?

For further information or help please call us at Oerton Simm on 01823 259449, email us at [email protected] or find us at https://www.oertonsimm.co.uk/support/contact-us/

14/07/2026

Family law matters can feel overwhelming.

Divorce, financial arrangements, child arrangements and cohabitation issues often come at a time when emotions are already running high. Having the right legal support can make a real difference.

At Oerton Simm, we focus solely on family law. That means clients receive specialist advice from solicitors who understand both the legal process and the personal impact behind every decision.

We offer:

✔ Clear family law advice without confusing jargon
✔ A compassionate and discreet approach
✔ Practical guidance tailored to each situation
✔ Support with divorce, finances, children and cohabitation agreements
✔ A proactive service designed to keep matters moving forward

Our aim is simple. To help clients feel informed, supported and more in control of the next step.

Many clients come to us during one of the most difficult times in their lives. They value our calm advice, professional approach and ability to explain their options clearly.

If family circumstances have changed and legal advice is needed, Oerton Simm can help.

Book a confidential consultation and take the first step towards moving forward with clarity.

07/07/2026

When families change, grandparents can feel the loss too. For many, it is not just about missing visits. It is the worry of losing an important bond with a grandchild.
That can feel deeply painful and very hard to navigate.
Every family is different, but where contact has broken down, understanding the options can help bring some calm and direction. It is okay to ask where you stand.
If you are worried about contact with grandchildren, our team can help explain the next steps.
Call Oerton Simm on 01823 259449, email [email protected], or visit our contact page to arrange a confidential conversation.