Competition watchdog to investigate firms offering “quickie” divorces and will writing

Competition Watchdog to Investigate “Quickie” Divorce and Will Writing Services

The Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) in the UK has announced that it will be launching an investigation into firms offering “quickie” divorces and will writing services. This comes after an increase in popularity of online divorce services, especially during the Covid lockdowns.

According to the CMA, some customers have raised concerns about misleading claims made by these online services, including the simplicity of the process and the prices involved. Complaints also include reports of inadequate quality of service, such as using the wrong forms, entering incorrect details, and submitting paperwork to the court late.

In addition, the CMA is looking into pre-paid probate plans, where customers pay upfront for probate services. The watchdog is concerned about the lack of transparency regarding costs covered by these plans, as well as the potential for unnecessary plans to be sold, leading to delays in the probate process and financial difficulties for bereaved relatives.

CMA chief executive Sarah Cardell emphasized the importance of investigating these essential legal services, particularly during challenging times in people’s lives. The watchdog is calling for consumers who have used these services to come forward with their experiences by 4 September.

If the CMA finds that firms have breached consumer law, they have the authority to take enforcement action, including obtaining a court order. However, the watchdog may initially provide advice on compliance or seek a commitment from the company to change its practices.

If you have been affected by issues related to online divorce services, will writing, or pre-paid probate plans, you can share your experiences by emailing haveyoursay@bbc.co.uk. Your input could help shape the outcome of this investigation and ensure fair treatment for consumers in the future.