It’s no secret that the family courts are under huge pressure. Every working day, more than 1,000 new cases start in the family court — and the average time taken to resolve them has soared by 36% since 2018.
For separating couples, that means more waiting, more uncertainty, and often, more emotional strain — not to mention the financial cost.
At BSG Solicitors, our family law team sees first-hand the toll these delays can take. That’s why we’re joining forces with Resolution during Good Divorce Week to highlight the urgent need for better support and earlier access to legal advice.
A System at Breaking Point
A recent parliamentary report revealed that the average family court case now takes 41 weeks to conclude — up from just 26 weeks a few years ago. With courts struggling to cope, families are left in limbo for months at a time, waiting for hearings, judgments, or even simple procedural steps.
While court staff and judges are doing everything they can, the truth is that the system simply doesn’t have the resources it needs.
Early Legal Advice Could Change Everything
At BSG Solicitors, we believe many couples could avoid the stress of court entirely if they received early, accessible legal advice. That might mean exploring mediation, collaborative divorce, or simply having the right guidance at the right time to make informed decisions.
Barbara Richardson, Head of Divorce & Finance at BSG Solicitors, explains:
“Too often, couples come to us after months of trying to navigate separation on their own, by that point, the conflict and confusion have often deepened. With early legal advice, many could have avoided court altogether and reached fair, constructive agreements that work for their families.
Our family courts in are doing their very best under incredible strain, but without more funding and investment in early intervention, delays will only grow. We need to make sure families can access help before they reach crisis point.”
Good Divorce Week: Promoting a Better Way
Good Divorce Week, led by Resolution, is about encouraging separating couples to approach divorce with less confrontation and more cooperation. As proud members of Resolution, our family lawyers at BSG Solicitors follow a Code of Practice that promotes understanding, respect, and solutions that put children first. But to make that approach accessible to everyone, public funding and systemic support are essential.
Looking Ahead
At BSG Solicitors, we’ll continue to advocate for change — and for families. We believe divorce doesn’t have to mean destruction. With the right advice, at the right time, it’s possible to part ways with dignity, fairness, and a clear path forward.
If you’re considering separation or divorce and want to understand your options, our friendly team is here to help. Get in touch with our Divorce & Finance department today for an initial consultation.
