Patrick Mullins of Robert Barber Solicitors in West Bridgford is preparing himself for the post Christmas divorce rush!

According to Mr Mullins, the New Year always brings with it a rush of Nottinghamshire couples seeking divorce or separation.

Mr Mullins, a trained family mediator and solicitor, explained: �Christmas is often the breaking point for both married and unmarried couples whose relationship is already in difficulty. They put on a brave face over Christmas but this is the time when the decision is made to separate and the New Year is often the excuse they need for a fresh start.

�As a result of this, our mediation and legal team experiences its busiest months for divorces and separations in January and February.�

However, Mr Mullins is urging couples to avoid costly court proceedings and instead seek the help of a properly trained and qualified mediator who could help make the separation as pain-free as possible and even help each person retain some of the festive cheer!

He added: �Taking family disputes through the courts is not only extremely costly but can also lead to a permanent breakdown in relations, which often helps no one especially when children are involved. Mediation can help in a lot of situations and more and more people are recognising the benefits of using it.�

The number of divorces in England and Wales has fallen to the lowest level for 22 years according to the Office for National Statistics; however, the number of marriages has also fallen with more couples choosing to co-habit than marry.

Robert Barber was one of the first firms of solicitors in the region to offer a family mediation service, Accord Mediation, in 1997. Further details about the Accord Mediation service are available by calling 08700 123 123.