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Getting a divorce can often be a difficult experience due to the stress of their relationship breaking down and length of the proceedings, so many clients often have concerns about how long a divorce takes in the UK.
Thankfully, the divorce process in the UK is typically a relatively simple process, due to the ‘no-fault divorce’ act introduced in April 2022, meaning that there is now less blame involved and couples do not need to provide a specific reason for wanting a divorce, they can simply include a 'statement of irretrievable breakdown'.
In this blog, we will discuss:
- How the divorce process works
- How long to get a divorce?
- Do I need a solicitor when getting a divorce?
- Is getting a divorce expensive?
How the divorce process works
As a result of having no-fault laws in place, the first step is for either one partner or both to make a divorce application, this can be done online or via post. This is typically done with the support of an experienced divorce solicitor who will be able to guide you in filling out the correct paperwork and ensuring that there are no mistakes that could cause delays in your application.
This process can take anywhere from a few days to a few weeks, depending on the availability of your divorce solicitor.
If a sole application is made, the other spouse is then required to confirm their receipt of the application, which is done by filling out and returning an ‘acknowledgement of service’ document. This should be done with 14 days of receiving the initial application. It is also important to note that because of the new no-fault divorce rules, it is now not possible to contest or refuse to acknowledge a divorce application, which can speed up the process.
After the divorce application has been issued by the court, you will then have to wait for a minimum of 20 weeks before they can apply for a Conditional Order. This is a legal document confirming that there is no reason that the couples should not be allowed to continue with their divorce. It is important to note that the 20-week period is a minimum, it can sometimes take longer for the court to issue a conditional order.
Once a Conditional Order has been issued by the Court, it is then possible to apply for a Final Order, which is the legal confirmation that the marriage has officially come to an end. You will be able to apply for a Final Order a minimum of 6 weeks after a Conditional Order has been issued.
With the timeframes introduced from no-fault divorce, the minimum timeframe of a divorce will be 26 weeks.
How long does it take to get a divorce?
When getting a divorce, it is difficult to accurately predict how long the process will take as each case is completely different and will be affected by different factors. For example, if you are able to amicably decide with your partner on matters such as who will receive what marital assets and arrangements for any children involved, this can expedite the process.
Our divorce solicitors will be able to assess your case and give you a rough timeline, whilst working diligently to ensure that the process runs as smoothly as possible.
Do I need a solicitor when getting a divorce?
Yes, it is highly recommended that you have the support of an experienced divorced solicitor during the divorce process, especially if you are concerned about the timeframe of your divorce. A solicitor will be able to handle all the legal intricacies such as submitting or replying to a divorce application, applying for a Conditional Order and applying for a Final Order.
They will also be able to ensure that you don’t run into any unexpected pitfalls which could further delay the process.
At Clarkson Wrights & Jakes, our solicitors will do everything within their power to keep things amicable and out of the court system, as going through court can become extremely expensive and cost you a lot of time. By using alternative dispute resolution methods, we can assist you in reaching a settlement that is mutually agreeable for both parties.
Is getting a divorce expensive?
How expensive a divorce will be will depend on many factors, however, due to the introduction of ‘no-fault divorce’, the cost of getting a divorce is now typically less expensive than it previously was.
Working with an experienced divorce solicitor who is adept at using alternative dispute resolution methods such as collaborative law or mediation can also help matters from becoming contentious, reducing the likelihood of having to go through the courts to sort out your financial affairs. This can often make a large difference in how expensive the divorce is, as going to court will nearly always be more expensive and time-consuming.
How can our solicitors help?
At Clarkson Wright & Jakes, our solicitors have been guiding clients through the divorce process for many years, handling all the legal aspects on their behalf whilst supporting them both legally and personally. We understand how difficult this decision can be, so we aim to make the process as smooth and amicable as possible.
Whilst it can be difficult to predict how quickly a divorce will take due to individual circumstances, our divorce solicitors will be able to assess your case and give you a rough estimate.
Where possible, we aim to keep things out of court, as this will save you money and time in the long run.
Speak to our divorce solicitors
If you are considering a divorce, please get in touch with one of our excellent divorce solicitors who will be able to answer any initial questions you may have. Our friendly staff will be more than happy to speak to you. You can call us on 01689 887887 or make an enquiry using our contact form.