Removing lawyers from divorce planning

FINANCIAL advisor Scott Haywood is intent on cutting lawyers out of separation and divorce proceedings between couples and helping reduce costs and conflict in the process.

The founder and coach of divorceplanning.com.au said the reflexive instinct to follow the traditional legal route when separating was expensive and often unnecessary for many people.

“The first thing people generally do when they separate is lawyer up and that takes away a lot of the power and puts it in the lawyer’s hands.

“Rather than lawyering up and spending $10,000, we can do it for $2,000… we try to keep the control to the individuals, we have qualified mediators, and create an amicable situation.”

He said the service took on a new level of importance during COVID-19 lockdowns when couples living together attempted to split.

“It evolved through the pandemic when so many different weren’t used to spending time with each other and we found an opportunity to help at a cheaper cost, without lawyers,” Mr Haywood said.

“And people separated during the pandemic but stayed under the same roof.”

“It’s a business that attracts couples who are still amicable, who are looking for an amicable solution, and would rather spend money on their children rather than tip it down the drain through lawyers.”

Some separations are inevitably less friendly, but testimonials for divorceplanning.com.au demonstrate that clients are happy to have found the business during a difficult time.

“I’m happy to admit that when I started this process I was completely lost,” Geelong resident Paul said.

“My separation was extremely difficult with numerous complications… my mental health wasn’t great, either.

“Scott was able to help get things moving and in the end we ended up with a great result. I can’t thank you enough for your being available when I needed you and your timely advice. Forever indebted.”

As the cost of living and interest rate rises bite into household budgets Mr Haywood believes people will be increasingly on the lookout for ways to avoid additional financial burdens.

“We know apart from infidelity, money is the number two reason for separation,” he said.

“Everything is now about the higher cost of living, interest rates are probably going to go up and everyone is looking to save money… so we’re removing the lawyer.”

Financialplanning.com.au opened the doors of its Ocean Grove office in 2021 and the first 15 minute consultation is free for prospective clients.

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