Hi there,I've been separated for 20yrs,would like to get divorced,

Hello,

Thank you for reaching out. I understand that navigating a divorce after a long period of separation can be a challenging and uncertain process, and I can offer some general guidance on the matter.

General Divorce Procedure
The first and most critical point is that divorce laws are highly specific to the country and even the state or province where you reside. The procedure you must follow depends entirely on your local jurisdiction. However, in many places, the general steps include:

Filing a Divorce Petition: One or both spouses file a formal application with the family court to legally end the marriage.

Financial Settlement: Since you have been separated for 20 years, it is crucial to formally and legally divide any shared assets, debts, and property. Even after a long separation, you may still be legally tied to your spouse's finances until a court issues a financial order.

Mediation: Many couples use a neutral third-party mediator to help them agree on financial matters and other arrangements without a lengthy court battle.

Finalizing the Divorce: Once all legal requirements are met, including any waiting periods and the settlement of finances, the court will issue a final decree of divorce.

Legal Considerations for Long-Term Separation
It is a common misconception that a long separation automatically severs financial ties. Legally, you remain married until you are officially divorced. This means that assets acquired even after separation could potentially be subject to a claim by your ex-partner. Therefore, seeking a formal divorce and a "clean break" financial order is essential to protect your financial future.

How I Can Assist
While I can provide support and preliminary guidance, it is imperative that you consult a licensed family lawyer in your area to receive advice tailored to your specific situation and local laws.

If you would like to discuss the general process further and explore, I offer an initial consultation service via WhatsApp for a modest fee. This can help you organize your thoughts and prepare for your meeting with a local attorney.

Please feel free to get in touch if you would like to arrange a session.

Best regards.