Introduction
Are you considering ending your marriage or civil partnership? This guide will help you understand the steps involved in a “no fault” divorce or dissolution, making the process clearer and less daunting. With insights on timeframes, costs, and necessary documents, you’ll be better prepared for what lies ahead. If you need assistance along the way, Contend’s highly trained AI legal experts are here to provide guidance and support, ensuring you navigate your legal challenges smoothly. Remember, with Contend, you have access to the easiest legal help in the UK.
If you’re thinking about ending your marriage or civil partnership, it’s important to know the steps involved. The process is straightforward, and you don’t need to provide a specific reason for the separation, which is often referred to as a “no fault” divorce or dissolution.
Key Points to Remember
- Time Requirement: You can only apply for a divorce or dissolution after being married or in a civil partnership for at least one year. If it’s been less than a year, you might want to look into separation options.
- Application Process: You and your partner can either submit one application together (a joint application) or one person can apply alone (a sole application).
- Disputing an Application: If you’re the person receiving the application (the respondent) and you disagree with it, it’s wise to consult a solicitor for advice on how to proceed. You can find out how to respond to a divorce or dissolution application on GOV.UK.
Important Safety Considerations
If your partner is aggressive or makes you feel unsafe, prioritize your safety. Reach out for help. Women can contact Refuge or Women’s Aid at 0808 2000 247. Men can call Men’s Advice Line at 0808 801 0327. If you’re part of the LGBTQ+ community, you can reach out to the Galop National LGBT+ Domestic Abuse Helpline at 0800 999 5428.
Before You Apply
It’s best to agree on a few key matters before applying:
- How to divide shared finances
- What will happen to your home
- Where children will live
If you can’t come to an agreement, you can still proceed with the application.
If You Have a Visa
If you’re in the UK on a visa dependent on your partner, be aware that your visa will end once the divorce or dissolution is finalized. You may need to apply for a new visa or leave the UK.
Timeframe for Divorce or Dissolution
The entire process will take at least six months, even for straightforward cases. Complications regarding finances or children may extend this timeframe.
Costs Involved
Expect to pay a court fee of £593 when you apply. If you’re facing financial difficulties, you may be eligible for help with this fee. Check your eligibility for assistance on GOV.UK.
Do You Need a Solicitor?
While it’s not mandatory to have a solicitor, it can be beneficial to seek legal advice. A solicitor can help you navigate the process, represent you in court, and ensure that your interests are protected. You can find a solicitor specializing in divorce on the Resolution website.
Steps to Follow
- Decide Who Will Apply: You can apply alone or jointly. If you choose to apply jointly, ensure that both parties agree throughout the process.
- Gather Required Documents: You’ll need your marriage or civil partnership certificate. If you were married abroad, ensure you have a certified copy and, if necessary, a translation. If you no longer have the certificate, you’ll need to contact the government of the country where the marriage or civil partnership happened to get a certified copy. You can find out how to contact foreign embassies in the UK on GOV.UK.
- Complete the Application: You can apply online or by post. Be thorough and accurate to avoid delays.
- Notifying Your Partner: The court will typically notify your partner about the application. If you’re applying alone, you may need to serve the papers yourself under certain circumstances.
- Partner’s Response: Your partner has 14 days to respond if they disagree with the application. If they do not respond, you may have options to proceed without their input.
- Request a Conditional Order: After 20 weeks, you can apply for a conditional order, which is a step towards finalizing the divorce or dissolution. You can get help with your divorce application on GOV.UK or get help with your dissolution application on GOV.UK.
- Final Order: Six weeks and one day after receiving the conditional order, you can apply for the final order, which officially ends the marriage or civil partnership.
Proving Your Status
Once you have your final order, keep it safe as it serves as proof of your divorce or dissolution. If you lose this document, you can request a replacement through GOV.UK.
Final Thoughts
Divorce or dissolution can be a challenging time, but understanding the steps can make the process smoother. If you have any questions or need assistance, consider reaching out to Contend’s legal expert chat. Contend’s highly trained AI legal experts will work with you to provide guidance and help you understand and resolve your legal problems. You’re not alone, and help is available. Contend is the Easiest Legal Help in the UK.
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