It is no longer necessary to provide reasons for your separation (e.g. adultery or unreasonable behaviour), nor is it necessary to live separately for a specific period of time before you can apply for a divorce or dissolution of civil partnership.
The new procedure is known as the “no fault” divorce and the only requirement is that you believe your marriage has irretrievably broken down.
It is possible for one party to the relationship to apply or a joint application can be made. Generally speaking, it is no longer possible for the other party to defend a divorce.
The divorce process itself is relatively straight-forward and if you wish, you may not require a solicitor to help. The application is made online. You will be required to pay a court fee.
Read our blog about 'DIY Divorce' which considers whether you can change a light bulb. The answer to this is likely to be “yes” but would you feel confident that you could rewire your home? Unless you’re a qualified electrician then probably not. It might be said that the same goes for Divorce and agreeing a financial settlement.
We think that it’s important that, at a time when you are feeling uncertain about your circumstances, you are given time to properly discuss your situation with a member of our team. The initial consultation generally lasts at least an hour during which we offer advice regarding your options and next steps. Following the meeting you will hopefully feel more informed and in control and can then reflect upon whether you wish to instruct us further.
Before the meeting we provide you with access to “Engage” which is an online questionnaire. It is “intelligent” adapting to your specific circumstances to capture much of the information that would traditionally be gathered in a face to face meeting so that your first meeting is as productive as possible. Engage uses the same sort of technology as online banking. You will be emailed a complete record of the information that you have provided which will encrypted for your peace of mind.
Please call us to book your consultation, alternatively you can complete this form and we will be in touch to arrange a consultation at a time to suit you.
Authorised and regulated by the Solicitors Regulation Authority (SRA ID: 620030) · Registered Company in England & Wales. Registered address Church Walk, Hinckley LE10 1DN. Company No: 08882394 · VAT Reg. No: 207 0095 44. We would like to make you aware of the Online Dispute Resolution website for advice on resolving online disputes. If we refer to the term 'partner' or 'member' at any time during your matter this means a 'Director' of the company.
