Quick guide to divorce | Winston Solicitors

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

I have used Winstons for both family and Conveyancing and they have been 5* on both.I would highly recommend
Jacqueline
Review for Wendy – Family Law Services at Winston’s Solicitors, LeedsI recently had the pleasure of working with Wendy from Winston’s Solicitors in Leeds on a family law matter, and I cannot recommend her highly enough. From our first consultation, Wendy was incredibly professional, empathetic, and thorough in her approach. She took the time to fully understand my situation, providing clear and concise advice at every step of the process.Throughout the entire case, Wendy was always available to answer any questions I had, and she made sure I felt supported and informed. Her knowledge of family law is exceptional, and I felt confident in her ability to handle my case. She was transparent about all costs, keeping me informed of any developments along the way.What truly stood out to me was her attention to detail and her ability to navigate what was a very emotionally charged situation with sensitivity and care. Wendy was not only a skilled professional but also genuinely understanding of the emotional impact of my case, which made a huge difference during a stressful time.Thanks to Wendy’s hard work and dedication, I was able to reach a favorable outcome, and I am incredibly grateful for her support. If you are looking for a compassionate and experienced family law solicitor, I would wholeheartedly recommend Wendy at Winston’s Solicitors.
Natalie
Exceptional Service - Highly Recommended I recently engaged the services of Winston Solicitors and was thoroughly impressed by the professionalism, expertise, and dedication demonstrated by the Winston team: Harriet Reid and Emily Bell. From the outset, they provided clear guidance, timely communication, and a level of care that made a challenging process much more manageable. Their attention to detail, responsiveness, and commitment to achieving the best possible outcome were evident throughout. I felt fully supported and confident in their hands. I highly recommend Winston Solicitors to anyone seeking high-quality legal services. Thank you for your outstanding work!
Emmanuel
In my divorce I dealt with Teresa Davidson and Emily Bell. I found them both at all times to be professional, responsive and compassionate. Based on my experience I would not hesitate to recommend them for any divorce or family law related matter.
Mark
I have received nothing but a fantastic service from Emily Bell and Harriet Reid during a challenging time. They have always been responsive and to the point with their communication. I am grateful for all the help I have received.
Bill
This be my 2nd time I've used Winston Solicitors & both times they have been Extremely Professional both Teresa & Judith fully understood my frustration on what was going on at that time but with Time & again Professional attitude i was Very Happy with there hard work i seriously recommend Winston Solicitors as they turn over every stone what needs to be done thank you Regards Ryan Doyle
Ryan
After having a very bad start to my court case with another solicitor- I was recommended Wendy and she was brilliant. I had great support from the start got the results I asked for. Highly recommend
Martina
Wendy at Winston solicitors was outstanding in supporting me through the complications of my divorce. She was compassionate, understanding and most importantly efficient throughout a difficult time and after having had a negative experience at a different solictors. I will be eternally grateful for everything Wendy has done - thank you.
John
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