Since April 2022, couples in England and Wales can divorce without blaming each other. It has made the process less hostile, but there are still decisions to get right.
The timeline
After the application is issued there's a 20-week reflection period before you can apply for a conditional order. Six weeks and one day after that, you can apply for the final order. In practice, most divorces take six to nine months.
Sole or joint applications
You can apply together or one of you can apply alone. Joint applications can feel more cooperative, but they need both people to engage at each stage, so a sole application is sometimes more practical.
Don't forget the finances
A divorce ends the marriage but doesn't end financial claims between you. Without a financial order, either of you could make a claim years later. We usually advise agreeing finances before the final order is made.
Getting support
Our family team at Fairbrook Solicitors are members of Resolution and focus on constructive outcomes. If you'd like to talk through your situation, book a free initial call.
Written by
Hannah Okafor
Partner, Family Law
Resolution-accredited specialist in complex financial settlements and child arrangements.
