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The divorce process
Application
One or both spouses submit a divorce application to the court using the HMCTS Portal, citing irretrievable breakdown of the marriage without assigning blame.
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20-week reflection period
After the application is filed, and your former spouse has responded to the petition, a mandatory 20-week reflection period begins. During this time, spouses may also exchange financial information using Form E and address any necessary child arrangements, including including the time your children spend with you both.
Conditional order
After the reflection period, the applicant(s) apply for a Conditional order (previously known as Decree Nisi). The court reviews the case and, if satisfied, grants the order.
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6-week waiting period
Following the Conditional order, there is a mandatory 6-week waiting period before the final step can be taken.
Final order
After the 6-week waiting period, the applicant(s) may apply for the Final Order (previously known as Decree Absolute), officially ending the marriage.
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Average 9-12 months
If more than 12 months have elapsed between obtaining your conditional order and applying for your final order, you will have to submit a short statement to support your application, explaining the delay.
How we can help with our fixed-fee divorce package
Having a clear idea of costs upfront can help remove some of the financial uncertainties that divorce can bring.
read more- We offer a competitively priced fixed-fee divorce package.
- We ensure transparency by telling you exactly what you’ll pay before the process begins.
- If you are the applicant: £750+ VAT and court fee £612
- If you are the respondent: £385 + VAT
- If a fixed-fee divorce package isn’t right for your circumstances, we will offer an hourly rate package that is more tailored to your needs.
Meet our expert fixed-fee divorce solicitors
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