When a relationship ends, it is not only an emotional upheaval but also a legal process that can feel daunting. You may be worried about what happens next, how to start proceedings, how long it will take, what it means for your finances, and how it will affect your children.
At Gordons Partnership, our family law team is here to give you clarity from the very start. We explain the process in plain English, outline your options, and support you in making decisions with confidence.
Divorce applies to marriages, while dissolution applies to civil partnerships. Since 6 April 2022, the law has changed to introduce no fault divorce. You no longer need to prove adultery or unreasonable behaviour, or wait for two years after separating. Now, it is enough to make a simple statement that your relationship has irretrievably broken down.
This change was designed to reduce conflict and allow couples to move forward with less confrontation.
To apply for divorce or dissolution you must:
Alternative options include Judicial Separation, which is similar to divorce but does not legally end the marriage, and Annulment, which may be available within the first year.
The process has been simplified in recent years but still follows important steps:
The document formerly known as a Petition is now called an Application. One party (the applicant) can apply alone, or both can apply together. While joint applications can be less confrontational, there are reasons why in some cases a sole application is preferable, particularly where financial issues remain unresolved.
If the application is made by one party, the other (the respondent) will be asked to confirm receipt.
After a minimum 20-week reflection period, the court can grant a Conditional Order (previously known as Decree Nisi). This confirms that the legal grounds for divorce or dissolution are satisfied.
After a further minimum six-week cooling-off period, you may apply for the Final Divorce/Dissolution Order (formerly Decree Absolute). This formally ends the marriage or civil partnership.
The minimum legal timetable is around 26 weeks (six months) from application to Final Order. However, in practice, it often takes longer. This is because financial issues should ideally be resolved before the Final Divorce/Dissolution Order is granted, to avoid leaving claims open.
A Final Divorce/Dissolution Order:
It does not resolve financial rights and responsibilities. For finality, a separate financial order is needed. We strongly advise waiting until finances are settled before applying for the Final Divorce/Dissolution Order.
The court fee for starting a divorce or dissolution is currently £612. This is usually paid from joint funds. Additional court fees may arise if there are complications, such as difficulty serving the application.
It is now rare for one party to be ordered to pay the other’s costs. Applications for costs orders can be made, but they carry extra court fees and legal costs. We will provide you with a clear quote for our services. In most straightforward cases, legal fees for assistance with the divorce process itself are around £600 plus VAT, not including financial matters.
Understanding your situation and concerns before advising.
So you always know what will happen next.
Keeping conflict and costs to a minimum.
With strong representation if litigation becomes necessary.
No. Since April 2022, you can apply immediately if your relationship has irretrievably broken down.
Yes. Joint applications are possible and may help reduce tension, but there are times when a sole application is more appropriate.
Only in limited cases, such as if the court does not have jurisdiction or if the marriage is invalid.
Not usually. It is strongly advised to resolve financial matters first to protect your position.
At least six months, but often longer where finances or child arrangements are complex.
If you need advice in relation to any family matter, please do not hesitate to contact our family team.
If you are considering divorce or dissolution, or if proceedings have already begun, we are here to help. You will not face confusing paperwork or unanswered questions. You will deal directly with experienced lawyers who listen, explain, and act in your best interests.
Gordons Partnership – clarity and confidence in legal advice, from people you can trust.
Call us on 01483 451900
Email Judith Fitton, Mark Studdart, Laura Cavannagh, Liberty Lawson to arrange a confidential conversation.
