The Divorce Law

The law concerning divorce has changed significantly in recent times, meaning that you can now apply for a divorce without needing to lay blame on your husband, wife or civil partner.

The Divorce, Dissolution and Separation Act 2020 and the notion of “No Fault Divorce” came into effect on 6 April 2022 and has modernised the process for applying for divorce in a way not seen for over 50 years to reflect society and the relationships of today.

In order to get divorced, you must be legally married. The law of England and Wales does not recognise some foreign or religious marriage ceremonies.

You cannot apply for a divorce until you have been married for one year.

Depending upon which country(ies) your spouse and you live or have lived in, you may wish us to advise you on whether there are alternative jurisdictions where you could apply for a divorce.

The mechanics of obtaining a divorce are usually quite straightforward, particularly if you both agree that the marriage or civil partnership is over. The difficulties tend to arise when resolving the practical issues, such as the manner and timing of the physical separation and the arrangements for children and finances.

A Few Facts About No-Fault Divorce

  • The Divorce, Dissolution and Separation Act 2020 removes the need for one person to blame the other when wishing to divorce.
  • The irretrievable breakdown of the marriage or civil partnership is the sole and only reason for a divorce.
  • The separating couple can make a joint application for a divorce, should they wish to do so.
  • A divorce cannot be contested.
  • There is a minimum 20 week cooling-off period between the initial application for a divorce and the granting of the conditional order to allow for a period of reflection and breathing space for the parties involved. This cooling-off period also allows the parties time for constructive discussions in relation to financial and children arrangements to try and achieve a non-contentious outcome where possible.
  • There is a period of 6 weeks from the making of the conditional order before the Final Order can be made. It is at this point that your divorce is finalised.

How Much Is My Divorce Likely To Cost?

Monan Gozzett recognises that embarking on the process of applying for a divorce can be a very stressful time. We want to offer our clients a high level, personal, stress-free and expert service, and so we offer a fixed fee package for clients wishing to apply for a no-fault divorce.

When acting on behalf of Petitioners/Applicants in a no-fault divorce, we offer a fixed fee service of £600 + VAT. Similarly, when acting on behalf of Respondents in a divorce, we can offer a reduced fixed fee service of £400 + VAT.

A fixed fee is a one-off payment made at the point of instructing us, which will include the whole divorce process, from the point of applying for a divorce to the point of the final order being made.

We take care of it all so that you can concentrate on you and your family.

The fixed fee does not include the court issue fee for a divorce of £593. Nor does it include representation in relation to matters that need to be resolved in connection with the divorce, such as matrimonial finances and arrangements for children of the marriage.

Why Choose Us To Represent You In Relation To Your No-Fault Divorce?

When you instruct us to represent you in relation to your no-fault divorce, we will take your detailed instructions through our discovery appointment. We will also identify any other aspects of your divorce that we feel you would benefit from legal advice and assistance.

We will then be able to provide you with a detailed estimate of the cost of our professional services in connection with any additional aspects of your divorce.

At Monan Gozzett LLP, we understand that going through a divorce can be a stressful and emotive time for you. If you or someone you know needs expert advice on divorce and family-related matters, do not hesitate to get in touch.

Monan Gozzett has a dedicated team of family lawyers who will be pleased to assist you.

Contact us today using the details below.

Want to talk? Our Family Law Clinics are held once a month and offer complimentary 20-minute appointments. Find out if you could benefit.

If you would like to speak to our expert legal team about this, or any related subject then please contact our team by phone on 0207 936 6329, Email or by completing our Quick Contact Form below.