Do You Need to Attend?

No Attendance Usually Required

If your application is a joint application or a sole application with no children under 18, you typically don't need to attend. The divorce can be granted "on the papers."

Attendance Required

You (or your solicitor) must attend if:

You have children under 18

The court has questions about your application

There are issues with service

Before the Hearing

Check Your Hearing Details

Your hearing notice will tell you:

Date and time

Location (or online link)

Court room number

Prepare Your Documents

Bring:

Photo ID

Copy of your application

Proof of service (if sole application)

Any correspondence from the court

At the Hearing

Arrival

- Arrive 15 minutes early

Check in at the registry

Wait to be called

The Hearing Itself

Divorce hearings are brief (5-10 minutes):

1. The Registrar calls your name 2. You confirm your identity 3. They may ask about children's arrangements 4. If satisfied, they grant the divorce

What You'll Be Asked

For matters with children:

Are the children's arrangements satisfactory?

Have circumstances changed since filing?

After the Hearing

Divorce Order Made

The Registrar makes a divorce order. However, it's not final yet.

Final Divorce

The divorce becomes absolute (final) one month and one day after the order is made. You'll receive a divorce certificate.

What You Can't Do Before Final Order

- Remarry

Claim to be "divorced" on official forms

Tips for the Day

- Dress respectfully (business casual is fine)

Be polite to court staff

Answer questions clearly and briefly

Don't bring young children if possible

What Happens at a Divorce Hearing?