A regional solicitor has warned that divorce rates could rise in 2010, in tandem with the economic recovery.

Victoria Moreton, partner and family law specialist with TBI Solicitors has said divorce rates continued to decline in 2009 as couples stalled the process because of financial worries. The concern was caused primarily by low property prices, but also by funding professional fees. However, if house prices continue their recovery and economic growth is sustained, it is expected that this will provide couples with more confidence in relation to their financial affairs and therefore enable them to agree it is now an appropriate time to go their separate ways.

Ms Moreton said: “In the last year, the simple fact that properties have been much harder to sell, raising less cash in the process, has meant that couples literally could not afford to divorce. However, if a relationship has broken down it is always worth seeking professional advice as soon as possible. We are aware that the economic crisis has affected families and can suggest alternatives to ensure as stress-free a divorce as possible, assist in organising the financial settlement and help you through the entire procedure.”

Divorce rates in the UK have fallen over the last decade, though the country still has one of the highest divorce rates in the world. Traditionally higher numbers of divorce instructions are received at the beginning of the year following the hiatus of the Christmas break and the stress of the holiday period.

For further advice on any aspect of family law, contact Victoria Moreton at TBI Solicitors on 01642 673797.

For further advice on any aspect of family law, contact Victoria Moreton at TBI Solicitors on 01642 673797.