Divorce or splitting up is never easy - the emotional upheaval, especially when children are involved, legal complexities and financial implications make even the most amicable parting a demanding business. This invaluable guide offers comprehensive, step-by-step advice on the whole process, along with clear explanations of how the law works and guidance on the key considerations and ways to avoid conflict and extra cost whether you are married, civil partnered, unmarried, straight, gay, young or old.This book covers topics such as: choosing a solicitor, deciding when to go to court and legal fees; mediation and what it can help to achieve; telling the children and what you need to know about child maintenance; pensions, property and other financial concerns; legal measures to deal with child abduction or domestic abuse; and, different laws and procedures in Scotland and Northern Ireland. It covers married, civil partnership and unmarried couples.