No-fault divorce solicitors

A no-fault divorce allows one or both partners to apply for divorce by simply stating that the marriage has irretrievably broken down, without needing to prove blame or wrongdoing. Here is what you can expect:

• The application – You can apply for the divorce individually or jointly. The application is submitted to the court along with a court fee.
• 20-week reflection period – Once the application is issued, there is a 20-week waiting period to allow time for reflection and planning.
• Conditional Order – After the reflection period, you can apply for a Conditional Order (previously called Decree Nisi), confirming that the court sees no reason the divorce can’t proceed.
• 6-week waiting period – You must then wait at least six weeks before applying for the Final Order, although it is common to wait longer as there can be complexities with financial matters that need to be considered.
• Final Order – This legally ends the marriage.

Although the no-fault divorce process is more straightforward, decisions around finances and children are handled separately, and these are often the areas where disagreements are most likely to arise. It is important to be aware that the divorce process is a standalone process and a separate process is needed to avoid leaving financial claims open against one another.

We recommend getting in touch with our no-fault divorce solicitors, who can support both you and your ex-partner in reaching clear, fair agreements, ideally without going to court.​​​​​​

The introduction of no-fault divorce has brought several important benefits for separating couples, such as:

• Reduces conflict – There is now no need to blame one another in the formal legal process, which helps keeps the process more amicable and conversations more focused.
• Simplifies the process – It is a straightforward application-based process, with no need to present evidence of fault.
• Supports co-parenting – A less challenging process makes it easier to maintain a working relationship, especially important when children are involved.
• Modern, respectful approach – It reflects today’s understanding that relationships can end without wrongdoing, and that divorce doesn't have to be a battle.

A no-fault divorce typically takes a minimum of six to seven months from start to finish. This includes:

• A 20-week reflection period from the date the application is issued, giving couples time to consider their decision and make practical arrangements.
• A 6-week waiting period between the Conditional Order (formerly known as Decree Nisi) and the Final Order (formerly Decree Absolute), which legally ends the marriage.

Timelines may be longer if there are delays in reaching agreements on finances or child arrangements and depending on the speed at which the parties (and the court) move things forward.

No. A no-fault divorce does not affect the outcome of financial or child-related matters. These are dealt with separately and assessed based on fairness, needs, and the best interests of any children involved. The no-fault process simply changes how the marriage ends, not what is decided about your finances or parenting responsibilities.

You are not legally required to have a solicitor for a no-fault divorce, however professional legal support can make a big difference.

A no-fault divorce solicitor ensures that your application is completed correctly, helps you understand your rights, and crucially advises on financial settlements and child arrangements, which are not automatically resolved by the divorce itself.

The court fee for applying for a no-fault divorce is £612 (as of June 2025) which is paid when you submit your application.

If you instruct solicitors, you will also need to pay solicitors’ fees as they support you through the process. Our experts offer a range of ways of working with you to progress the divorce itself to suit both your circumstances and your budget.

It is important to remember that the costs of resolving issues concerning your children and finances will be separate. Solicitor fees vary depending on the complexity of your situation. Contact us and our solicitors will provide a clear understanding of costs during your free exploratory call.