No Fault Divorce
At Cullimore Dutton, we provide much more than your standard legal service. When you work with us, you’ll benefit from more dedication, more care, and more protection, helping you to move forward with clarity.
No-fault divorce allows couples to legally separate without assigning blame to either party. It represents a significant shift in divorce law, removing the need to prove wrongdoing and reducing conflict during an already difficult time. Whether you're ready to start the divorce process or simply exploring your options, we’re here to guide you through every stage.
As one of only a handful of firms able to provide financial and legal advice in one place, we are perfectly placed to support couples going through a divorce.
Our expert family law team in Chester can advise you on the no-fault divorce process, how to apply, and what it may mean for your financial arrangements and future. With our calm and constructive approach, you’ll receive clear advice rooted in experience and compassion.
At Cullimore Dutton, we can help clients with:
- No-fault divorce advice
- Applying for a no-fault divorce
- Divorce financial settlements
Contact our no-fault divorce solicitors in Chester
To speak to one of our experienced family law solicitors about no-fault divorce, please contact us today.
Call 01244356789 or complete the enquiry form on our homepage, and we’ll get back to you as soon as possible.
Our no-fault divorce service
No-fault divorce advice
The introduction of no-fault divorce laws in England and Wales means you no longer need to give a reason such as adultery or unreasonable behaviour when filing for divorce. This allows couples to separate more amicably and with less stress.
We’ll help you understand your rights and responsibilities under the current no fault divorce legislation, offering tailored advice for your unique situation. Whether you're initiating the divorce or responding to an application, we’ll ensure that you are fully informed and supported from start to finish.
At Cullimore Dutton, we can help with:
- Explaining the no fault divorce process and legal requirements
- Advising on timelines, paperwork, and next steps
- Supporting with joint or sole applications
We appreciate that going through a divorce is a challenging and emotional time. Be assured, our team is here to help you make sense of the process and move forward with confidence.
Applying for a no-fault divorce
You can apply for a no-fault divorce online or via paper application forms. Either one party (a sole applicant) or both parties together (joint applicants) can start the process. Once the application is submitted, there is a mandatory 20-week wait period before the next stage can begin.
Cullimore Dutton can support you through every stage of the process, including:
- Preparing and submitting your divorce application
- Responding to notices and timelines
- Ensuring all documentation is complete and accurate
- Applying for a Conditional Order, and later a Final order, whilst adhering to the necessary waiting periods
- Offering mediation and legal advice if there are any contested issues
We recognise that while the no blame divorce approach may reduce conflict, divorce still carries emotional and practical challenges. Our priority is to offer sensitive and clear guidance, so you feel empowered throughout.
Your divorce solicitor will ensure to carefully explain each stage of the process, so that you understand your position and know exactly what to expect.
Divorce financial settlements
While no-fault divorce removes the need to assign blame, it does not automatically resolve financial matters between separating spouses. We can assist you in reaching a fair and sustainable divorce financial settlement, whether through negotiation or, if needed, court proceedings.
Our experts can support clients with various matters, including:
- Assessing assets, liabilities, and income
- Negotiating lump sums, spousal maintenance, or property division
- Drafting and securing Consent Orders
- Advising on pension sharing and future financial planning
To discuss your needs today, please contact our specialist divorce solicitors at Cullimore Dutton.
Why choose Cullimore Dutton for no-fault divorce in Chester?
Cullimore Dutton is one of Chester’s most established law firms, with roots dating back to 1792. We’ve guided generations of clients through divorce with compassion, discretion, and clarity.
What makes us different is our combination of legal and financial expertise. Our family lawyers work side by side with our in-house financial planners to help you navigate every aspect of divorce, from the legal process to pensions, mortgages, and long-term financial security.
When you choose us, you benefit from decades of family law experience, and integrated legal and financial approach. We always handle divorce and separation cases sensitively, supporting you with personalised advice every step of the way.
With Cullimore Dutton, you’ll receive more guidance, more security, and more care. To learn more about no- fault divorce in Chester, please get in touch.
Frequently asked questions about no-fault divorce
What is no-fault divorce?
No-fault divorce is a legal process that allows couples to divorce without attributing blame to either party. Introduced in England and Wales in 2022, it removes the need to provide reasons such as adultery or unreasonable behaviour and focuses on mutual acknowledgement that the relationship has irretrievably broken down.
This no fault divorce law encourages a less confrontational and more constructive separation process.
What is the no-fault divorce process?
The no fault divorce process includes:
- Filing a divorce application (sole or joint)
- Waiting the mandatory 20-week reflection period
- Applying for a Conditional Order (previously called Decree Nisi)
- Waiting 6 weeks, then applying for a Final Order (formerly Decree Absolute)
How do you apply for no-fault divorce?
To apply for no fault divorce, you can use the online government portal or submit a paper application. You are advised to seek legal support throughout the process, to protect your interests.
Our solicitors can help you complete the paperwork and ensure all steps are followed accurately. We can provide bespoke advice based on your circumstances, and assist with related matters, such as reaching a financial settlement.
How long does a no-fault divorce take?
The minimum time it takes to finalise a no-fault divorce is 26 weeks — 20 weeks from application to Conditional Order, followed by a 6-week wait before applying for the Final Order.
Delays may occur if financial or child arrangements are still being negotiated. When you work with us at Cullimore Dutton, we can assist you to reach a financial settlement and make child arrangements, as quickly as the circumstances will allow.
What is the cost of a no-fault divorce?
The court fee to file for divorce is currently £593. Legal fees vary depending on whether you require assistance with finances, children, or contested matters.
We’ll provide a clear cost estimate at the outset, and fixed-fee packages may be available depending on your needs. To learn more about our fees, please get in touch using the contact details below.
Contact our no-fault divorce solicitors in Chester
To speak to one of our experienced family law solicitors about no-fault divorce, please contact us today.
Call 01244356789 or complete the enquiry form on our homepage, and we’ll get back to you as soon as possible.