Since April 2022, couples in England and Wales can divorce or dissolve a civil partnership without blaming the other person. The process is more straightforward on paper — but finances and child arrangements still need careful handling.
The main stages
- Apply online or on paper (sole or joint application).
- Wait a minimum of 20 weeks from issue to conditional order.
- Apply for a conditional order once the waiting period ends.
- After a further 6 weeks and 1 day, apply for a final order.
The final order ends the marriage or civil partnership. It does not by itself settle money claims.
Finances are separate
Divorce and financial remedy are linked but distinct. Without a sealed financial order dismissing future claims, either person may still be able to bring claims later. That is why consent orders matter even when you are amicable.
Children
You do not automatically need a court order about children. Many families agree arrangements themselves or through mediation. Court applications remain available where agreement is not possible.
When to get advice
We can guide you through divorce stages and prepare a financial consent order so your settlement is binding.