Going through a divorce can feel overwhelming, but understanding the process can help make it less daunting. In Northern Ireland, divorce is granted through the courts, and there are specific steps you’ll need to take.
Step 1: Establishing Grounds for Divorce
You must show that the marriage has irretrievably broken down. The court recognises five legal grounds:
Unreasonable behaviour
Adultery
Desertion (for at least 2 years)
2 years’ separation with consent
5 years’ separation without consent
Step 2: Filing a Petition
The spouse starting proceedings (the petitioner) files a divorce petition with the court. This document sets out the ground(s) for divorce.
Step 3: Serving the Petition
The other spouse (the respondent) will receive a copy of the petition and has the opportunity to respond.
Step 4: Financial and Child Arrangements
Alongside the divorce itself, the court can deal with financial settlements (property, pensions, savings, debts) and child arrangements (custody, residence, contact). These matters often require negotiation or mediation before being finalised by the court.
Step 5: Court Hearing
In most cases, if both parties agree, the divorce will be uncontested and dealt with by a judge in chambers. Contested divorces may require a full hearing.
Step 6: Decree Nisi and Decree Absolute
If the judge is satisfied, a Decree Nisi (provisional order) is granted. After a minimum of 6 weeks, you can apply for the Decree Absolute, which legally ends the marriage.
Practical Tips
Remember: divorce is a legal process; emotional support from family, friends, or counselling can also make a big difference.
Gather key documents early: marriage certificate, financial records, proof of separation.
Consider mediation to resolve disputes before going to court.
Take legal advice on financial settlements – pensions and property are often overlooked.
Keep children’s wellbeing at the centre of decisions.
The back-to-school season brings extra challenges for families going through separation or divorce. At Michelle Crilly Family Law, we understand that your children’s wellbeing is your top priority during this difficult time.
Key Considerations for Separated Parents
Stability and Routine: Children need predictability during family changes. Use the new school year to establish consistent patterns that work across both homes.
Communication: Keep teachers informed about your family situation so they can provide appropriate support. Share important school information with both parents to ensure everyone stays involved.
School Events: Plan ahead for parent-teacher conferences, sports days, and school plays. These moments are about celebrating your child’s achievements – focus on them, not personal disputes.
Finances: Agree early on who pays for uniforms, books, trips, and activities to prevent future conflicts. Consider setting up a shared account for school expenses.
Emotional Support: Watch for signs of stress in your child and maintain open communication about their feelings. School counselling services can provide additional support when needed.
Top Tips for Back-to-School Success During Separation/Divorce:
Stay flexible – be willing to adjust arrangements if they’re not working for your child
Establish clear school pickup and drop-off arrangements – consistency helps children feel secure
Share important school information – both parents should receive newsletters, reports, and event notifications
Create a shared calendar for school events, parent-teacher conferences, and extracurricular activities
Maintain similar homework routines in both homes to avoid confusion
Plan ahead for school trips and special events – discuss attendance, permissions, and costs early
Focus on your child’s achievements – celebrate successes together when possible
Establish clear financial agreements for school-related expenses to avoid disputes
Consider your child’s emotional needs – be prepared to seek additional support if needed.
As technology companies introduce tougher online safety regulations, parents find themselves navigating an increasingly complex digital landscape. While new age verification systems and content moderation policies provide important protections, parents remain legally responsible for their children’s online safety.
Parental Responsibility in the Digital Age
From a family law perspective, the duty of care parents owe their children extends into the digital realm. Courts increasingly consider a parent’s approach to online supervision when making custody decisions, making digital safeguarding not just good parenting but a legal necessity.
Parental responsibility now includes monitoring children’s online activities with age-appropriate oversight, educating them about digital risks and appropriate behaviour, and setting clear boundaries around screen time and social media use.
Digital Safety and Family Breakdown
When relationships end, online safety becomes another area requiring careful consideration in custody arrangements. Family courts are addressing questions such as which parent has authority over a child’s social media accounts and how parents should communicate about digital safety concerns.
In my practice, disputes over children’s online activities have become significant sources of conflict between separated parents. Courts favour arrangements ensuring consistent online safety standards across both households.
Beyond Technology Company Protections
While platforms must implement better age verification and content filtering, parents cannot rely solely on these measures. Children are often more digitally naive than their parents, and technology moves faster than legislation. Parents remain the primary guardians of their children’s welfare online and can face legal consequences for inadequate supervision.
Practical Legal Advice
Keep detailed records of online safety measures you implement and any incidents that occur – this documentation can be crucial in family law proceedings.
Ensure your digital boundaries are consistent and reasonable, as courts favour parents who demonstrate thoughtful approaches to online supervision.
If you disagree with a co-parent about digital boundaries, seek professional legal advice before issues escalate.
Remember that while children’s privacy rights develop as they mature, safety always takes precedence.
Tougher online regulations provide important protections, but cannot replace parental guidance and supervision. Parents must remain actively engaged in their children’s digital lives while understanding that protecting children online ultimately maintains the fundamental principle that children’s welfare comes first, whether in the physical or digital realm.
Top Tips to Stay Safe Online
Keep your personal details private. Don’t share your full name, address, school, phone number or other personal information online – it can be misused by strangers.
Only talk to people you actually know. Stick to chatting with friends and family online, and tell a parent or trusted adult straight away if someone you don’t know tries to contact you.
Don’t click dodgy links or download random files. Suspicious links and unknown downloads can contain viruses or lead to harmful websites that could damage your device or steal your information.
Trust your gut and speak up. If something online makes you feel worried, scared or uncomfortable, tell a parent, teacher or another trusted adult immediately – they’re there to help keep you safe.
Be careful what you post and share. Remember that photos, messages and videos can be screenshot and shared by others, even if you delete them later.
Use strong passwords and keep them secret. Create different passwords for different accounts and don’t share them with friends – only trusted adults should know them if necessary.
Think before you meet anyone in person. Never arrange to meet someone you’ve only chatted to online without telling your parents first and having them come with you.
Report and block nasty behaviour. If someone is being mean, sending inappropriate content or making you uncomfortable, block them and report it to the platform and a trusted adult.
The farming community faces unique challenges that can place enormous strain on family relationships. At a recent agricultural seminar hosted by the Agricultural Law Association at the Glenavon Hotel in Cookstown, the spotlight was firmly placed on the mental health and wellbeing of farmers and their families – highlighting an issue that deserves our urgent attention and support.
The Hidden Pressures of Modern Farming
Farming is more than just a profession – it’s a way of life that affects every aspect of family dynamics. The pressures facing today’s agricultural families are multifaceted and intense:
Financial Uncertainties – Fluctuating commodity prices, unpredictable weather patterns, and rising operational costs create constant financial stress that ripples through family life.
Work-Life Balance Challenges – The demanding nature of agricultural work, often requiring long hours and seven-day weeks, can strain marriages and parent-child relationships.
Generational Expectations – Family farms carry the weight of tradition and legacy, creating additional pressure on relationships when different generations have conflicting visions for the future.
Isolation and Mental Health – Rural isolation can compound stress, making it difficult for farming families to access support when relationships begin to break down.
When Family Relationships Reach Breaking Point
These mounting pressures can unfortunately lead to the breakdown of marriages and partnerships within farming communities. When this happens, families need specialist legal support that understands both the emotional complexities and the unique practical challenges involved.
How Michelle Crilly Family Law Can Help
Separation and Divorce Services
We provide compassionate, expert guidance through the legal process of separation and divorce, understanding that for farming families, this often involves complex considerations around business assets, land ownership, and family legacy.
Judicial Separations
For couples who may not wish to divorce but need formal legal separation, we can guide you through the judicial separation process, ensuring your rights and interests are protected whilst maintaining the flexibility you may need.
Financial Settlements
Agricultural assets present unique challenges in financial settlements. We work with agricultural valuers and financial experts to ensure fair division of assets, taking into account the working nature of farm enterprises and their ongoing viability.
Child Custody and Living Arrangements
Perhaps the most sensitive aspect of any family breakdown involves decisions about children. We help families navigate:
Residence arrangements – determining where children will live following separation
Contact schedules – ensuring both parents maintain meaningful relationships with their children
Education and upbringing decisions – particularly relevant for farming families considering rural versus urban schooling options
Future involvement in family farming enterprises – ensuring children’s long-term interests in family assets are protected
A Sensitive Approach to Agricultural Family Law
We understand that farming families face unique circumstances that require a tailored approach. Our services recognise that:
Timing matters – Agricultural cycles and seasonal demands affect when and how legal proceedings can be managed
Privacy is paramount – Rural communities are tight-knit, and we ensure discretion throughout the process
Business continuity is crucial – We work to protect the ongoing viability of agricultural enterprises during family transitions
Emotional support is essential – We collaborate with counsellors and mental health professionals who understand agricultural pressures
Mental Health and Wellbeing: A Priority
The recent emphasis on mental health and wellbeing within the agricultural sector reflects a growing awareness of the unique stressors facing farming families. Legal separation or divorce proceedings can add to this stress, which is why we take a holistic approach that considers not just the legal aspects, but the emotional and practical wellbeing of all family members involved.
Moving Forward with Confidence
Family breakdown is never easy, but with the right legal support, farming families can navigate these difficult times whilst protecting their interests and those of their children. Our goal is to help families find solutions that allow everyone to move forward with dignity and security.
If you’re a farming family facing relationship difficulties, please don’t suffer in silence. Early intervention and professional support can often help preserve relationships, and when that’s not possible, ensure that separation is handled with minimal disruption to family life and agricultural operations.
Michelle Crilly Family Law provides specialist family law services with particular understanding of the unique challenges facing agricultural and rural families. For confidential advice and support, contact us to discuss how we can help your family navigate these difficult times.
Remember: You don’t have to face these challenges alone. Professional help is available, and seeking support is a sign of strength, not weakness.
The Public Prosecution Service (PPS) has released an updated Policy for Prosecuting Cases of Domestic Abuse, providing guidance on the prosecution process, victim support, and legal protections available.
Dr Richard Scullion, Head of Policy and Information at the PPS, emphasised the serious and lasting impact of domestic abuse, noting that in 2022/23, these cases accounted for over a fifth of the PPS’s caseload. He reaffirmed the PPS’s commitment to prioritising victim safety and holding perpetrators accountable.
The updated policy reflects the Domestic Abuse and Civil Proceedings Act (Northern Ireland) 2021, which criminalises not only physical and sexual violence but also coercive control, psychological, emotional, and financial abuse. This ensures legal protection extends beyond physically violent behaviour.
Recognising the difficulties victims face in coming forward, Dr Scullion highlighted that PPS prosecutors receive specialised training to handle these cases with fairness, sensitivity, and empathy. The PPS works closely with the Police Service of Northern Ireland to support victims and ensure their safety throughout the prosecution process.
Victims and witnesses can also access Special Measures, including giving evidence remotely or from behind a screen, to help them feel safer in court. The Victim and Witness Care Unit provides a dedicated point of contact from the moment a case is received to its conclusion, while specialist organisations offer practical and emotional support.
Dr Scullion urged anyone experiencing domestic abuse to seek help: “Don’t suffer alone – please report what has happened to the police.”
The legal aid system in Northern Ireland is on the verge of collapse, warns David Lavery, Chief Executive of the Law Society of Northern Ireland. Speaking to the Justice Committee on 13 February 2025, he called for urgent intervention to prevent irreparable harm to access to justice.
The Crisis at Hand
For three years, the Law Society has warned of “legal aid deserts”—areas where individuals struggle to find legal representation due to stagnant legal aid fees. While the Enabling Access to Justice programme is a step forward, immediate measures are needed.
An independent report by Hook Tangaza Consultancy confirms that criminal legal aid is financially unsustainable, forcing solicitors to withdraw from cases. Mr. Lavery and colleagues have urged the Justice Minister to ensure that the recently announced 16% fee increase applies to all ongoing cases and to commit to a full legal aid review.
Law Society’s Key Demands
Immediate implementation of the 16% legal aid fee increase across all cases.
A full independent review of legal aid fees.
An urgent review of legal aid in family law cases.
“The Department of Justice has delayed action for too long,” said Mr. Lavery. “Without urgent intervention, access to justice will be compromised.”
At Michelle Crilly Family Law, we support the Law Society’s call for immediate action to protect those who rely on legal aid. The time to act is now.
Michelle Crilly Family Law is dedicated to supporting families through every stage of the legal process. With extensive experience in divorce and custody matters, our team offers personalised legal solutions tailored to your specific needs.
On January 29, 2025, The Power to Change campaign launched in Northern Ireland, urging men and boys to reflect on their behaviors and take action against gender-based violence. Led by the Police Service of Northern Ireland, the Department of Justice, and the Executive Office, this initiative promotes accountability and intervention.
A Call for Change
Between 2019 and 2024, 32 women and girls in Northern Ireland were killed by men, with 92 attempted murders recorded. The campaign calls on men to:
Challenge harmful attitudes – Recognise how actions impact women and take responsibility.
Be Active Bystanders – Intervene safely when witnessing inappropriate behavior.
Leadership Voices
Chief Constable Jon Boutcher stated: “Women are not responsible for preventing harassment. Men must reflect on their own and others’ behaviors.”
Justice Minister Naomi Long emphasized: “Legislation helps, but changing attitudes is key.”
First Minister Michelle O’Neill added: “Misogynistic behaviour must be tackled at its root.”
How to Get Involved
A dedicated website, www.powertochange.info, offers resources and interactive quizzes to help individuals take action.
Change begins with you. Step up, speak out, and make a difference.
Michelle Crilly Family Law is dedicated to supporting families through every stage of the legal process. With extensive experience in divorce and custody matters, our team offers personalised legal solutions tailored to your specific needs.
The Christmas and New Year period is often seen as a time of celebration and togetherness. However, for many individuals and families in Northern Ireland, it is a period marked by distress and conflict. The latest management information released by the PSNI’s Statistics Branch highlights the continuing issue of domestic abuse during the festive season. These statistics, covering the two weeks from December 20th, 2024, to January 2nd, 2025, reveal worrying patterns and trends that require urgent attention.
1,288 Domestic Abuse Calls Received: Over the two-week period, PSNI received 1,288 calls for service related to domestic abuse. While this represents a slight decrease from the 1,336 calls received during the same period in 2023-2024, the numbers remain alarmingly high.
Peak Days for Calls: The highest volume of calls was recorded on January 1st, 2025, with 127 incidents reported. December 27th and 26th followed closely, with 109 and 102 calls, respectively. These dates reflect the emotional and financial pressures often associated with the festive season.
Comparison with Previous Years: The daily average of calls during this period was 92. This figure is slightly lower than the averages for the combined years 2020-2024 and 2015-2019, both of which stood at 98. However, it is notably higher than the monthly average for December (84) and the yearly average (80) over the last decade.
It is important to note that this data is derived from PSNI’s Command and Control System, capturing all calls coded as potential domestic abuse. As management information, it has not undergone the rigorous quality assurance processes applied to official statistics.
The patterns reflected in these figures are not new. Over the last ten years, the holiday season has consistently seen a spike in domestic abuse reports. This trend aligns with broader societal pressures during this time, including heightened financial strain, increased alcohol consumption, and strained family dynamics.
Michelle Crilly Family Law emphasises the critical need for robust support systems and accessible legal resources to assist those affected by domestic abuse. The persistent high volume of calls serves as a stark reminder of the work still needed to address this issue. Victims must know that help is available and that they are not alone.
For those experiencing domestic abuse, reaching out can be the first step toward safety and support. Whether through legal advice, protection orders, or connections to community resources, there are avenues to begin the journey toward healing.
Domestic abuse is a pervasive issue that demands collective attention, particularly during periods of increased vulnerability such as the festive season. As these statistics reveal, many individuals and families face harrowing circumstances during what should be a joyful time. Michelle Crilly Family Law remains committed to supporting victims of domestic abuse and advocating for systemic change to address this deeply rooted societal challenge.
Michelle Crilly Family Law is dedicated to supporting families through every stage of the legal process. With extensive experience in divorce and custody matters, our team offers personalised legal solutions tailored to your specific needs.
The holiday season can be a magical time, but for separated or divorced parents, it can also bring unique challenges. At Michelle Crilly Family Law, we understand the importance of creating a peaceful, joyful environment for your children, even when navigating complex family dynamics. Here are some tips to help you co-parent smoothly over the holidays.
1. Communicate Clearly and Early
Planning ahead is key to minimising misunderstandings. Sit down with your co-parent well in advance to discuss holiday arrangements, including where the children will be on specific days, any travel plans, and holiday traditions you’d each like to uphold. Clear communication helps prevent last-minute stress and ensures both parents’ voices are heard.
2. Be Flexible and Open to Compromise
Flexibility can make all the difference. If this is the first holiday season post-separation, emotions may still be raw. Try to be understanding and open to alternative arrangements, like sharing Christmas Day or celebrating on different days. This flexibility will show your children that both parents are willing to work together to ensure they have a happy holiday.
3. Keep Your Children’s Interests First
Children often feel torn between parents, especially during the holidays. Let them know it’s okay to enjoy time with both parents, and avoid any remarks that could make them feel guilty about their holiday arrangements. Keeping their needs at the centre helps to ease any anxiety they may feel.
4. Stick to Established Routines Where Possible
Children thrive on routine, especially during emotionally charged times like the holidays. If possible, try to keep bedtime, meal routines, and other daily habits consistent. This can help create a sense of stability and reassurance, even when holiday schedules get hectic.
5. Create New Traditions
The holidays are an excellent time to create new family traditions. Whether it’s decorating the house together, watching a favourite film, or making holiday treats, building new traditions can bring joy and help create lasting memories. For children, new traditions can be a wonderful way to adapt to family changes.
6. Stay Positive and Civil
Children pick up on their parents’ emotions, so try to keep conversations with your co-parent positive and civil. Avoid heated discussions in front of the kids and, if issues arise, handle them in a respectful manner. A harmonious environment will help children feel safe and allow them to enjoy the season fully.
By following these tips, you can help create a smooth, stress-free holiday experience for everyone involved. Remember, co-parenting during the holidays may not always be easy, but prioritising your children’s happiness and security makes it all worthwhile.
Michelle Crilly Family Law is dedicated to supporting families through every stage of the legal process. With extensive experience in divorce and custody matters, our team offers personalised legal solutions tailored to your specific needs.
Navigating the complexities of divorce and child custody can be overwhelming and emotionally draining. At Michelle Crilly Family Law, we understand the profound impact these legal processes have on your life and the lives of your loved ones. Engaging the expertise of a family law solicitor is not just beneficial—it is essential to ensure your rights and interests are fully protected.
1. Expert Legal Advice and Representation
Family law solicitors specialise in the intricate laws governing divorce and custody in the UK. We provide clear, informed advice tailored to your unique circumstances, helping you understand your rights and obligations. Whether it’s negotiating settlement terms or representing you in court, having a knowledgeable solicitor by your side ensures that your case is handled with the expertise it deserves.
2. Navigating Complex Legal Procedures
Divorce and custody cases involve numerous legal procedures and paperwork that can be daunting without professional guidance. From filing the initial divorce petition to drafting detailed custody agreements, a family law solicitor manages the legal process efficiently. We ensure all documentation is accurately completed and submitted within required timelines, reducing the risk of delays or errors that could negatively impact your case.
3. Objective Support During Emotional Times
Divorce and custody battles are often emotionally charged. A family law solicitor provides objective support, helping you make rational decisions amidst emotional turmoil. We act as a buffer between you and your ex-partner, facilitating constructive communication and negotiations. This professional support can alleviate stress and foster a more amicable resolution, particularly when children are involved.
4. Protecting Your Financial Interests
Financial settlements are a critical component of divorce proceedings. A solicitor assesses your financial situation comprehensively, ensuring a fair distribution of assets and liabilities. We help you understand the implications of various financial arrangements, advocate for your best interests, and work towards a settlement that secures your financial future.
5. Ensuring the Best Outcome for Children
Child custody arrangements significantly impact your children’s well-being. A family law solicitor prioritises the best interests of your children, striving to create a custody agreement that provides stability and supports their emotional and psychological needs. We guide you through the legal standards and considerations, ensuring that your children’s voices are heard and their needs are met.
Engaging a family law solicitor is a crucial step in navigating divorce and custody matters effectively. At Michelle Crilly Family Law, we are committed to providing compassionate, expert legal support to guide you through these challenging times. Our goal is to achieve the best possible outcomes for you and your family, ensuring that your rights are upheld and your future is secure.
If you are considering divorce or facing custody issues, contact Michelle Crilly Family Law today for a confidential consultation. Let us help you navigate the legal landscape with confidence and clarity.
Michelle Crilly Family Law is dedicated to supporting families through every stage of the legal process. With extensive experience in divorce and custody matters, our team offers personalised legal solutions tailored to your specific needs.
“I was extremely pleased that my case was carried out in a completely professional and efficient manner and throughout my case, I was treated with consideration and my Solicitor was particularly personable and friendly towards me”. - Anonymous
Michelle Crilly Family Law
5
2019-02-07T14:56:31+00:00
“I was extremely pleased that my case was carried out in a completely professional and efficient manner and throughout my case, I was treated with consideration and my Solicitor was particularly personable and friendly towards me”. - Anonymous
https://mcrillylaw.co.uk/testimonials/name-1/
“We were extremely satisfied with your service and you kept us informed every step of the way during our case. Everything was dealt with efficiently and professionally. We would recommend this firm and thank you for all of your help throughout the case” - Anonymous
Michelle Crilly Family Law
5
2019-02-07T15:05:08+00:00
“We were extremely satisfied with your service and you kept us informed every step of the way during our case. Everything was dealt with efficiently and professionally. We would recommend this firm and thank you for all of your help throughout the case” - Anonymous
