Jo Edwards joins ITV’s Lorraine alongside ‘Mother Pukka’ founder Anna Whitehouse to share her top tips for a good divorce on so-called ‘divorce day’

Head of Family, Jo Edwards, made a further appearance on ITV’s Lorraine to share her advice for married couples considering a divorce at the start of the year (traditionally the busiest time of the year for couples making enquiries about separation).

Jo stressed the importance of not rushing into a divorce after a difficult holiday period but taking time to reflect, consider counselling, and seeking some initial legal advice.

Jo also discussed with Lorraine the benefits of No Fault Divorce, which has been in place in England and Wales for nearly two years. As separating couples are no longer required to apportion blame as part of the process, a “good divorce” is a reality.

In light of Jo’s appearance on Lorraine here are Jo’s three top tips for a good divorce:

1. Unless the relationship is abusive, don’t rush to divorce
   Try counselling and give thought to what needs “fixing” and how that may be worked on. If there is a divorce down the line, it is more likely to be amicable if you both feel you have given it your all and are emotionally ready.
2. Don’t use children as pawns
   It’s parental conflict, not separation, which is known to cause most damage to children. If you restrict the other parent’s time with the children, or press for strict equal shared care despite the other parent having more available time, that may inflict emotional harm that stretches into adulthood. Children are entitled to grow up understanding the rich fabric of their genetic makeup; usually that means having a meaningful relationship with both sides of their family.
3. Plan
   Surround yourself with a good support network as you go through divorce; have individual therapy; familiarise yourself with the process by reading up. Above all else, be kind to yourself (and to your spouse, if they’re struggling).

Although Jo has extensive experience of taking cases to court where needed, she is well-known for her conciliatory, pragmatic approach and desire to settle even the most complex of cases where possible. As a trained mediator and collaborative lawyer, Jo is one of only a handful of lawyers in London qualified to consult with children in mediation.

For more information, please contact Jo Edwards.