Divorce Solicitors

Since the introduction of no-fault divorce, the initial application process now takes a minimum of 26 weeks.

How long your divorce will take depends on several factors, including:

• Whether you are making a sole or joint divorce application
• If you or your partner live abroad
• If there are any financial arrangements to agree.

It’s very unusual to have to go to court in person to get divorced.

When it comes to financial matters, it’s often possible to avoid court, instead reaching a settlement through a non-court dispute resolution process such as:

• Negotiation
• Mediation
• Collaborative divorce
• Arbitration.

However, if an amicable settlement isn’t possible, our lawyers will support you through any court appearances to get you a fair settlement.

Financial settlements are usually the most complex aspect of any divorce and are dealt with separately from the divorce itself.

The court will consider a number of factors when determining an appropriate financial settlement, with the aim of achieving a fair outcome. These include:

• Properties (including the family home)
• Savings and investments
• Pensions
• Income and earning capacity
• Business interests
• Financial commitments (both now and in the future)
• Contributions.

Mediation is a flexible and alternative way of resolving disputes outside of court, whether in relation to divorce, finances, or children. Mediators are independent, impartial professionals who are skilled at helping you to achieve fair outcomes.

There are many benefits to mediation and, if successful, it can be a cheaper and faster process than going to court.

Mediation takes place in a neutral setting, giving both parties equal opportunity to share their needs and concerns. It can ease anxiety, encourage constructive communication, and is especially helpful where children are involved.

If you would like to explore mediation after separation, our expert mediators can guide you and your former partner. Any agreements reached can be made legally binding with the help of our divorce solicitors.

When going through a divorce, having a legal expert on your side is invaluable. An experienced divorce lawyer can apply in-depth knowledge of the law to your situation, giving you tailored advice to achieve the best possible outcome.

Our divorce solicitors are widely acclaimed by leading legal guides like Chambers and Partners and The Legal 500 and will treat your case sensitively and respectfully, making sure your needs are accounted for.

On 6 April 2022, the law on divorce changed with the introduction of a new no-fault divorce process. This replaced the old procedure which had involved the need to blame a party for the breakdown of the marriage.

You now no longer need to give a reason for the breakdown of the marriage, or to blame one party. Instead, you just need to confirm that the marriage has broken down irretrievably.

You must have been married or in a civil partnership for at least 12 months before submitting your application.

No, the divorce process is the same for civil partnerships and same-sex marriages as it is for opposite-sex marriages. Our solicitors are experienced in handling all types of separation.