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An end to the blame game with 'no-fault' divorce

Wendy Campbell Wendy Campbell
2 min read

It is finally here, 6th April 2022, the date that many family lawyers have been waiting years for. From this date forward parties will no longer have to attribute blame to the other person in order to achieve a divorce.  No-fault divorce (after years of campaigning for it) has arrived.

Grounds for 'no-fault' divorce

The grounds for divorce remains the same, irretrievable breakdown of the marriage but the five facts, which were adultery, unreasonable behaviour, desertion, 2 years separation with consent and 5 years separation, have gone. If you are of the view that your marriage or civil partnership has irretrievably broken down this is now all you need to present your application for a divorce to the court. This can be done either as an individual or jointly with your partner.

Changes to divorce law

Divorce law terminology

The “divorce petition” is replaced by the "making of an application to the court for a divorce".

Instead of a “Decree Nisi” you will be given a "Conditional Order". 

The “Decree Absolute” is now called a "Final Order".

Divorce timeline

The period from the date of the application for a divorce through to the making of the Conditional Order will take a minimum of 20 weeks. There is still the minimum period of 6 weeks between the Conditional Order and the Final Order to allow for “cooling-off”, a period of reflection. It also allows time for other matters such as the children arrangements and financial matters to progress, hopefully amicably.

Divorce process

Divorce proceedings can no longer be contested by the other person, which again aids to reduce stress particularly in cases of domestic abuse.

As there is now an end to the blame game, it is hoped that parties are able to resolve children and financial matters without the hostility that has existed from the filing of adultery and unreasonable behaviour petitions.

So, whilst divorce and the ending of civil partnerships is a very difficult time for all concerned it is now hoped that the divorce process will be less harmful to relationships and children.

No-fault divorce does not affect financial commitments to each other and it is important that legal advice is obtained when seeking to resolve the finances.

Contact our Leeds based Family and Divorce Solicitors on 0113 320 5000, or email today via @email.

Client feedback

Wendy Campbell supported me throughout my divorce, firstly with financial settlements and then again with family matters regarding children. I can't thank her enough and would recommend to anyone who finds themselves in this position. Thank you. - September 2025
J Hall, Barnsley
Very easy to make an appointment, and the advice given was presented in a manner that a layman can understand and all questions answered to my satisfaction. have no hesitation in recommending if you need to use their service.
Anonymous
I moved my divorce to Teresa and Judith from another solicitor that I did not have confidence in and what a difference. Their sensitivity and understanding got me through one of the worst times of my life. Their guidance, support and knowledge through the whole drawn out process is so appreciated. Together we managed to achieve a fair settlement. Teresa and Judith absolutely know what they are doing. I cannot recommend them enough.
Pauline
Outstanding Legal Support from Start to Finish:From my initial call to the resolution of my case, the firm and its staff demonstrated exceptional professionalism and care. I would particularly like to commend Mrs Harriet Reid, a family solicitor whose dedication and expertise were instrumental in achieving a successful outcome.Despite having less than ten days to prepare, Mrs Reid devoted considerable time and attention to my case. Her legal knowledge, strategic insight, and empathetic approach were of the highest calibre. She displayed remarkable skill in preparing the case for my counsel, ensuring every detail was meticulously addressed.If I ever require legal representation again, I know exactly where to turn.
Anonymous
Teresa and Judith assisted with my recent divorce and i cannot rate them highly enough, i was talked through every aspect and everything was explained in full and i was kept fully updated and imformed of everything that i needed to do and when it was required for. Their patience when i was working away and understanding was especially appreciated.Once that was all complete Amanda and Samantha and the convayensing team sorted the transfer of the house and the paperwork associated with that.I would highly recommend them and thier company for any legal issues you have and would use thier services again without hesitation.
Richard J
Hannah at Winston helped me with filing the financial issues of my divorce to the court. She liaised with my ex husband as I was at a point I could no longer speak to him. I am very grateful to Winston’s and especially Hannah.
Anonymous
Was very satisfied with all the procedure of getting divorced was kept informed always through and explained all the legality in simple terms
Terry
Wendy Campbell who delt with my devorce was polite and understanding,very pefessional.I could not have ask for a better person to help me through the bad times. Always keeping me up to date with every thing and no problem she could not handle.
Andrew
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