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

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.