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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 £593.00.

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

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
Harriet at Winston Solicitors provided exceptional service while handling a matter for my mother during a particularly stressful time. She was incredibly thoughtful and reassuring throughout the process, always taking the time to ensure my mother felt comfortable and well-informed. Harriet’s approach felt very personal, and it was clear she genuinely cared about delivering the best possible outcome. I highly recommend Harriet for her professionalism, empathy, and dedication to her clients.
Amrit
Very happy with Winston's solicitors, I was able to be seen at very short notice which helped me out a lot, felt reassured with the short time i spent there, Hannah was very helpful and listened thoroughly to gain an understanding of what I was dealing with, I wouldn't hesitate to use again in the future if necessary
Richard
Very good service throughout my whole divorce proceedings. Good communication and ability to use online meetings to prevent need to travel to their offices.Flexible and worked alongside my work schedule.Felt like they gave me fair and realistic advice, with a friendly and understanding approach.Good breakdown of costs and clear billing processes.
Matthew R