Page 147 - The Circle of Life
P. 147

Effects of divorce?


               Freedom!  You  may  now  marry  who  you  please  again  but  this  really  (I  hope)
               should not be the reason for divorce. Legally you may also revert to your maiden

               name but usually  you keep the title Mrs even if I suspect that may be politically
               incorrect.  Each  to  his  own!  It  is your choice and some are angry enough to do

               so.

               You also lose all your marital rights towards each other which we discussed. It is

               important to carry on with your life and do the best you can. Where children are

               involved  you  never  really  lose contact with your ex and many told me through
               the  years  they  became  good  friends.  They  just  don't  ever  want  to  be  married

               again.

               The divorce process


               As always you start with a combined summons in the High Court. Whoever asks

               for  the  divorce  will  be  the  one  testifying  in  even  uncontested  divorces.  The
               plaintiff  will  have  to  answer  a  few  questions  which  are  really  no  big  deal.  Be

               prepared to wait for many hours as the courts are busy and you will soon note
               that everyone says the same thing. It is a proven formula.


               Talk  clearly  and  address  the  court  as  "My  Lord"  even  if  it  is  a  female  Judge
               (don't ask why for I don't know). Very importantly be neatly dressed meaning a

               jacket  and  tie  for  men  and  take  your  identity  book  and  original  marriage

               certificate with as you will be asked for it.

               Before  your  big  day  in  court  you  would  (unless  silly)  sign  the  fair  settlement

               agreement  (unhappily)  and  the  advocates  of  the  Family  Office  will  scrutinize
               your  settlement  with  the  children.  It  is  very  possible  that a social worker may

               visit  you  also  on  their  instruction.  They  and  the  social  worker  are  paid  by  the
               State  but  if  you  wish  you  may  get  a  private  social  worker  for  which  you  pay

               which  is  only  fair.  Typically  there  are  no  problems  with  this  aspect  and  they
               agree to what is normal. It is only where you want something outlandish where

               it becomes an issue.






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