Whether you are married or in a civil partnership the end of that relationship can be worrying and stressful leaving you anxious and in the dark about your finances, your home and your children. We guide our clients through the divorce procedure with compassion and care, assuring them that they have the right professionals by their side.
What is Divorce?
A Divorce is the legal dissolution of a marriage by a court. Once a couple has divorced, they are no longer legally married.
Who can get Divorced?
You can get divorced in England or Wales if all of the following are true:
You’ve been married for over a year
Your relationship has permanently broken down
Your marriage is legally recognised in the UK (including same-sex marriage)
The process
Whilst it used to be the case that one spouse commenced the Divorce and the other responded, when the law changed in April 2022 it became possible for spouses to apply jointly for a Divorce. As this is now an option, a decision must be made at the outset whether to proceed down the more traditional route of a sole application, or whether to make a joint application with your spouse. Our solicitors can advise you on the procedure for both, enabling you to make an informed choice.
There are three stages of Divorce i.e. Application, Conditional Order (previously known as Decree Nisi) and Final Order (previously known as Decree Absolute). Our solicitors will guide you through each stage of the process, taking on the burden of dealing with the court and any solicitors instructed by your spouse.
How long does it take?
It normally takes at least 7-8 months to get a Divorce. However it can take longer where there are financial matters to address and where finalising the Divorce before a financial order is made may prejudice one or both of the parties. This is because the Final Order in the Divorce impacts upon payments one or both might be entitled to receive, such as under the other party’s pension. Our solicitors will advise on whether this is relevant to you.
Costs
The court fee to start the Divorce process is currently £593. The applicant (in a sole application) or applicant one (in a joint application) will make this payment unless they qualify for Help with Fees which may lead to a reduction or total exemption. Our solicitors can also advise you and liaise with your spouse or their solicitor regarding recovery of all or part of this fee from your spouse where possible.
We charge a fixed fee for acting in Divorce assuming the Divorce is undefended and there are no complicating factors.
If you are the sole applicant or applicant one, our fee is £700 +VAT @20%.
If you are the respondent or applicant two, our fee is £500 +VAT @20%.
With so much to consider, you need to have the best legal expertise on your side. Our solicitors have decades of experience and are also members of Resolution, which means we are committed to promoting a constructive approach to family issues that considers the needs of the whole family. We offer a personal service, ensuring you are supported every step of the way.