An Amicable Divorce is one in which both parties agree to separate on mutual terms, avoiding blame and conflict, and work together to reach a fair and equitable outcome.

Whilst it is rare to have to appear in court for a divorce proceeding in the UK, you can attend for a consent order. In most cases, appearing will be unnecessary as our service manages all of the necessary legal paperwork and submissions on your behalf.

If there are any children, prioritising their wellbeing is important. Our service is designed to handle divorces involving children, ensuring that their needs are considered and addressed throughout the process, including custody, visitations and financial support. A mutually agreed divorce helps avoid conflict and stress that can have a significant impact on your child.

The individual service involves only one spouse handling the divorce process, whereas the couples service actively engages both spouses, involving them in the process and reducing the risk of conflict.

By engaging your spouse directly, they can anticipate the arrival of divorce papers and ask us any questions, which helps to expedite the process.

The process typically takes around 8 months from start to finish, including mandatory waiting periods. However, timelines can vary based on individual circumstances and if the couple stop collaborating/communicating with each

Yes, our impartiality in the couples managed service helps build trust, making it easier for couples to reach fast and smooth financial agreements, such as clean breaks or financial consent orders.

The new no-fault divorce law, effective from April 6, 2022, allows couples to apply for divorce jointly, and eliminates the need for one party to blame the other for the breakdown of their marriage.

Both parties agree to start the divorce application together, eliminating the need for an acknowledgment of service. After a 20-week reflection period, both parties must apply for a Conditional Order, followed by the Final Order after an additional 6-week cooling-off period, which legally ends the marriage or civil partnership. This streamlined process is commonly referred to as an amicable or uncontested divorce, and it helps avoid delays, unnecessary conflict, and additional legal costs.

If your situation is straightforward, with both parties in agreement, a DIY Divorce can be a seamless and cost-effective option. However, this is not without its risks, especially if complexities arise, it is important to seek legal advice, even if this is just for a consultation, as it can protect your interests and ensure the process runs smoothly.

To separate amicably, it’s important that both parties are open and honest with each other. Having clear communication and discussing reasons for divorce help both sides understand how their spouse is feeling. Being respectful to each other’s feelings, taking the time to listen, and avoiding passing blame or using accusatory language can help prioritise finding a mutually beneficial solution.

An amicable divorce relies on mutual agreement. If at any point, you or your partner disagrees on the terms, the process may shift to a contested divorce. Contesting a divorce is a procedure best left avoided if possible, as it can be time-consuming, emotionally exhausting, and expensive. 

Applying to contest a divorce must be done so within 14 days of receiving the acknowledgement of service form. This form is sent to you after your partner files the divorce petition.

You must formally state whether you intend to dispute the divorce and provide your reasons. Please note there are limited circumstances to dispute a divorce. Some exceptions include: 

• Jurisdiction:  if you or your partner live in another country, the courts in England and Wales may not be able to handle your application.
• Invalid marriage: If you can prove that the marriage or civil partnership was never valid. For example, if the marriage/civil partnership did not adhere with the laws of the country in which you married, meaning you did not enter into a legally legitimate marriage.
• Already divorced: If the marriage/civil partnership has already legally ended. For example, if you’ve already gone through divorce proceedings in another country.