Divorce Process

THE DIVORCE PROCESS – THE 4 STEPS TO DIVORCE

If you’re getting divorced, there are four steps you have to go through.

1. Deciding the reasons for divorce

If you wish to divorce in England and Wales, your marriage must have broken down irretrievably. You can establish irretrievable breakdown by proving one or more of the following facts:

• Adultery
• Unreasonable behaviour
• Desertion and you have been apart for two years
• Two years of separation (where both parties agree to the divorce)
• Five years of separation

2. Filing for a divorce petition

To apply for divorce, one person – known as the ‘Petitioner’ – must fill out a divorce petition and send it to the court. Within this petition it is necessary to provide written evidence on the reasons for divorce.

3. Applying for a decree nisi

The Petitioner must then wait for a response from their spouse, who for the purposes of divorce proceedings is called the ‘Respondent’. If your spouse does not challenge the divorce, you can apply for a decree nisi, the interim decree. This is an application that asks the court to review the paperwork on your case and decide whether or not your divorce can go ahead.

4. Getting a decree absolute

If the court issues a decree nisi, you must then wait six weeks and one day before you are allowed to apply for a decree absolute. This is a document that legally ends your marriage, and once you receive it you are then officially divorced.

Ask For Help

You do not have to go through divorce proceedings alone. At Pannone Solicitors we have a team of legal experts who will guide you through the divorce process, giving you care and support at every step. We understand that the breakdown of a marriage can be an upsetting and stressful time, and we promise to help make the process as smooth as possible.

For expert advice on divorce proceedings, click here or call us now on 0800 840 4929.

We are available to take your call 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.