Divorce and Separation

Our team of expert family lawyers know that the decision to separate or divorce is a difficult one and that appointing a solicitor who will be a true advocate for you throughout the process is essential.

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For a FREE initial consultation with our expert Family Lawyers, simply complete the form on this page, call 01244 356 789 or email info@cullimoredutton.co.uk.

Divorce

The Divorce, Dissolution and Separation Act 2020 has reformed the law in England and Wales on Divorce, Dissolution and Separation. No longer will divorcing or separating couples need to apportion ‘blame’ i.e. adultery, unreasonable behaviour or separation.

The only ground for Divorce will be that the marriage has broken down irretrievably and there will be very limited grounds for contesting the Divorce. The new act will enable either an individual or in appropriate cases, a couple together to apply jointly for a Divorce.

Once a petition has been issued, the Act introduces a minimum period of 20 weeks from the start of the proceedings until the application for a conditional order (formerly known as Decree Nisi) and thereafter a period of 6 weeks and 1 day before applying for the final order in Divorces.

Whether divorcing or separating, it is still crucial for parties to receive advice as to what will happen with regards to the financial aspects, which are often overlooked, as well as children arrangements.

Fixed Fee Divorce

In view of these changes, we are pleased to be able to offer our clients a fixed fee divorce which covers the making of the divorce application.* Our fixed fee for this service is £350 plus VAT. In addition to this fee, you will be responsible for the Court fee, which is £593.

Clients need to be aware that the fixed fee divorce service will progress through to the Final Order (previously called the Decree Absolute), resulting in divorce, however, unless a financial settlement is reached between both parties, and a Financial Order from the Court obtained, you and your former spouse will remain financially linked. Without a Court approved, final and binding Order, the door is left open for a former spouse to make a claim against you and your assets in the future.

It is therefore imperative that you seek legal advice to understand and consider your position and the impact divorce will have on you and your assets. Please see the Financial Aspects section below for further details.

*Unless there are jurisdictional issues, service issues, or the divorce becomes defended.

Separation

If you have decided to separate but have not yet reached any final decision about the marriage or divorce, we can advise on a Deed of Separation and more importantly whether that is appropriate in your circumstances. We can also advise you on any implications there may be if you decide to divorce in the future.