Divorce and family law covers ending a marriage or civil partnership, along with the practical questions that come with it — dividing finances, arrangements for children, and sometimes protective orders. Since "no-fault divorce" was introduced, the legal process of ending a marriage itself has become simpler, but the financial and children arrangements around it often still benefit from advice.
The basic divorce process
Under the no-fault system, either party (or both, jointly) can apply for a divorce by confirming the marriage has broken down irretrievably, without having to prove specific conduct. There's a minimum 20-week reflection period between the application and the conditional order, and a further six weeks before the final order that legally ends the marriage.
Sorting out finances
Getting divorced doesn't automatically resolve financial matters — property, pensions, savings and debts. A financial consent order, agreed between the parties and approved by the court, is what actually makes a financial settlement legally binding. Without one, an ex-spouse can in some circumstances bring a financial claim years later, which is why many solicitors recommend formalising this even in an amicable split.
Arrangements for children
Where possible, arrangements for children are best agreed between parents directly, but a solicitor or mediator can help where agreement is difficult. Court involvement (through a Child Arrangements Order) is generally treated as a last resort rather than a first step.
Choosing how to proceed
Options range from a DIY online divorce application for straightforward cases, through mediation, to full solicitor representation for more complex or contested situations. The right choice depends on how much you and your ex-partner agree on, and how complex your financial situation is.