NORTHERN IRELAND
Divorce in Northern Ireland
Different Legal System | Lower Fees | Fault-Based Divorce
1.9M
Population
£270
Court Filing Fee
7
County Courts
24%
Divorce Rate
Northern Ireland has its own distinct legal system. Unlike England which now has 'no-fault' divorce, Northern Ireland still operates a fault-based system under the Matrimonial Causes (NI) Order 1978. You must prove grounds for divorce such as adultery, unreasonable behaviour, or separation.
Major NI Cities
Key Differences from English Law
Different Legislation
Matrimonial Causes (NI) Order 1978 governs divorce
Lower Court Fees
£270 court fee vs £593 in England
Fault-Based Divorce
Still requires proving grounds (adultery, behaviour, separation)
Different Waiting Periods
Different separation periods than England
Separate Court System
NI Courts and Tribunals Service
Property Division
Similar principles but under different legislation
NI Courts
Royal Courts of Justice
Chichester Street, Belfast BT1 3JF
Principal family courtBelfast County Court
Laganside Courts, Oxford Street, Belfast BT1 3LL
County court family divisionLondonderry Courthouse
Bishop Street, Londonderry BT48 6PQ
Northwest areaCraigavon Courthouse
Central Way, Craigavon BT64 1AP
Upper Bann areaNewry Courthouse
The Mall, Newry BT34 1BJ
Newry and Mourne areaOmagh Courthouse
High Street, Omagh BT78 1DG
West Tyrone areaGrounds for Divorce in NI
Fault-Based Grounds
You must prove one of:
- Adultery (and find it intolerable)
- Unreasonable behaviour
- Desertion for 2+ years
- 2 years separation (with consent)
- 5 years separation (without consent)
Financial Provision
NI courts can order:
- Property adjustment orders
- Periodical payments
- Lump sum orders
- Pension sharing orders
- Maintenance pending suit
NI Divorce Resources
Law Centre NI
Free legal advice and representation
Citizens Advice NI
Free information and guidance
Family Mediation NI
Family mediation services
Law Society of NI
Find a qualified solicitor
Navigate Your NI Divorce
Northern Ireland law expertise, court info, and guidance.