Browell Smith & Co among first firms to offer online divorce

Browell Smith & Co is to become one of the first solicitor firms in the country to offer an online digital divorce service, as part of an ongoing Government pilot scheme.

The service was first launched as pilot in 2018, but was only available to members of the public who were not using a solicitor for their case. It has not previously been available to the legal profession.

Now Browell Smith & Co is to be among the first firms to offer the system to clients, making it quicker and easier to file divorce papers, cutting down on waiting times.

Gemma Iceton, divorce solicitor at Browell Smith & Co, said:

“This is great news for clients. Divorces are stressful, difficult experiences and any use of technology to make them progress more smoothly is a welcome development.

“We are delighted that Browell Smith & Co is among the first firms to offer the new digital system, which will massively reduce paperwork and make the entire process more client-friendly.

“We support the Government scheme, which is seen as a significant development for the Family Court, and are in favour of making divorces more straightforward and efficient wherever possible.”

In early tests of the system, the Government reported that over 1,000 petitions were issued, with 91 per cent of people saying they were satisfied with the service.

The Government also says court staff currently spend 13,000 hours dealing with complex paper divorce forms, and hopes this simpler and less technical online service will contribute to a 95 per cent drop in the number of applications being returned for amendments or for clarification.

You can find out more about divorce services from Browell Smith & Co’s family law team here.

Contact our expert team today to arrange a no-obligation chat at any of our offices, in Newcastle, Cramlington, Ashington and Sunderland, or alternatively telephone our team directly  0191 691 3418 to discuss your particular requirements.