COMPLETE GUIDE
UK Divorce Guide 2025
No-Fault Divorce | Step-by-Step Process | Updated for 2025
£593
Court Fee
Standard application fee
26 weeks
Minimum Time
20 weeks reflection + 6 weeks after conditional order
Yes
No-Fault Divorce
Since April 2022
Available
Joint Applications
Both spouses can apply together
Since 6 April 2022, England and Wales have had no-fault divorce. You no longer need to prove adultery, unreasonable behaviour, or separation. A simple statement that the marriage has irretrievably broken down is sufficient.
The 5 Stages of UK Divorce
Stage 1: Start Application
Complete divorce application online or by post. Pay £593 court fee.
1 dayStage 2: 20-Week Reflection Period
Mandatory waiting period for both joint and sole applications.
20 weeksStage 3: Conditional Order
Apply for conditional order (formerly decree nisi). Court reviews application.
1-4 weeksStage 4: 6-Week Wait
Mandatory waiting period after conditional order.
6 weeksStage 5: Final Order
Apply for final order (formerly decree absolute). Divorce complete.
1 weekFinancial Settlement
Financial matters are dealt with separately from the divorce itself. You can reach agreement at any time.
1
Form E
Full financial disclosure2
Negotiate
Reach agreement on assets, pensions, maintenance3
Consent Order
Court-approved financial settlement4
Clean Break
End all financial ties (where possible)Child Arrangements
The welfare of children is the court's paramount consideration. Parents are encouraged to agree arrangements.
Parenting Plan
Agree living and contact arrangementsChild Maintenance
CMS or private agreementChild Arrangements Order
Court order if agreement not possibleParental Responsibility
Both parents retain unless removed by courtNeed Help?
Free Calculators
Child maintenance, pension splitting, and more.
Find a Solicitor
Connect with UK divorce solicitors.
Document Help
Template and document assistance.
Navigate Your UK Divorce
Expert guidance, calculators, and support through every stage.