Quick guide to divorce

A standard divorce usually takes around seven to eight months. If there are finances to sort out you may be advised to delay applying for the final order until such matters have been resolved.

The grounds for divorce

There is only one ground for divorce in England and Wales and that is that the marriage has irretrievably broken down. Before 6th April 2022 you could only obtain a divorce by relying on one of five facts, however “no-fault divorce” is now the sole reason for divorce and the five facts no longer apply.  This means that a divorce can be obtained without blaming the other person. While the "new" process is more straightforward, it also can take longer as there is a five-month "cooling off" period following issue of the divorce application.

For help with a divorce call 0113 320 5000

The divorce process 

Divorce proceedings can now be commenced either by one individual or as a couple by filing an application for divorce (what used to be referred to as the “divorce petition”) at court.  So, if you and your partner both agree that your marriage has irretrievably broken down, you will be able to make a joint application for divorce.

How long does it take to get a divorce?

Under the new process there is a required gap of 20 weeks from filing the application to being able to apply for a Conditional Order (what used to be called the decree nisi).  The period of waiting 6 weeks and 1 day after the making of the Conditional Order remains, so the whole process can usually take seven to eight months at least, unless there are exceptional reasons for potentially shortening the timescale.

How much does a divorce cost?

In addition to legal costs the court fee of issuing an application for divorce is currently £612.00.

If you would like to learn more about how we can help you make an application for divorce please call the family team on 0113 320 5000 or email family@winstonsolicitors.co.uk. 

Client feedback

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
My Divorce case was handled efficiently and with understanding by Teresa and Judith who guided me all the way through it with sympathy for the circumstances and I wouldn't hestitate to recommend them, infact I have already done so!
Elizabeth R
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