---
title: Getting Divorced in England or Wales? Here’s the Lowdown
description: How to start divorce proceedings in the UK
image: https://blog.odt.co.uk/hubfs/image-png-2.png
---

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 Jul 16, 2025 1:25:14 PM

# Getting Divorced in England or Wales? Here’s the Lowdown

![Picture of Jazmin Greenfield](https://blog.odt.co.uk/hs-fs/hubfs/jazmin-greenfield.png?width=50&name=jazmin-greenfield.png) [Jazmin Greenfield](https://blog.odt.co.uk/author/jazmin-greenfield)

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Divorce doesn’t have to be a legal maze. Since the 2022 *no-fault* divorce reforms, it’s easier than ever to untie the knot , no blame, no drama, just a clear process.

**✅ First, Make Sure You’re Eligible:**

To apply, you must:

- Be married for at least 1 year
- Believe the marriage has irretrievably broken down
- Have a UK-recognised marriage
- One of you must live in England or Wales

*(In Scotland or Northern Ireland? The rules are a bit different — check with a local solicitor.)*

**📝 How to Apply:**

You can apply:

- **Online at GOV.UK** (quickest)
- **By post** using form D8

You’ll need:

- Your marriage certificate
- £612 court fee (or apply for help if on a low income)
- Basic info for both spouses

Apply solo or together (sole or joint application).

**📬 If Your Spouse Applies First:**

You’ll get an *acknowledgement of service* form. Confirm you’ve received it and whether you agree (you usually can’t contest it under no-fault rules).

**⏳ The Timeline:**

1. **File the application**
2. **Wait 20 weeks** – Time to reflect and sort things like finances and parenting
3. **Apply for a Conditional Order**
4. **Wait 6 more weeks**
5. **Apply for the Final Order** – And that’s your legal divorce!

**⚠️ Divorce Doesn’t Cover Everything:**

It doesn’t sort:

- Money, property, pensions
- Child arrangements

To finalise those, get legal help for a **Financial Consent Order** and a clear **parenting plan**.

**Need help?**  
At **ODT Solicitors**, we make divorce clear, calm, and manageable. Whether you’re starting the process or responding, we’ve got your back.

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