Family Law
Deciding to divorce often brings legal questions alongside practical worries about money, housing and children. We explain the process in clear terms, help you identify what needs attention now and advise on the decisions that can affect your future financial position.
Understanding your next steps
Under the no-fault process in England and Wales, an application can be made by one spouse or jointly. We can check eligibility, explain the stages and help deal with practical difficulties such as missing documents or uncertainty about where the other person lives.
The final order ends the marriage, but does not automatically dismiss financial claims. We help you consider the timing of the divorce alongside any proposed settlement, pensions and property arrangements. Advice before applying for the final order can be particularly important.
You may need advice about access to money, the family home or arrangements for children before the divorce is complete. Tell us about any safety concerns, overseas connection or court deadline so these issues can be considered at the start.
A clear way forward
Your marriage certificate, any existing application, your spouse’s contact details and a brief outline of children and finances are useful starting points.
We distinguish the divorce itself from financial or children’s work and explain the relevant process, fees and choices.
We help with the agreed legal work and consider what needs to be resolved before the final order is requested.
Planning ahead
The divorce application is only one part of the possible work. Financial negotiations and children’s proceedings should be scoped separately. We can explain the legal fees, VAT, court charges and any additional work that your circumstances require.
For a new application, there is a 20-week wait from issue before applying for a conditional order, then at least six weeks and one day before applying for a final order. Processing and related issues can add time.
Read our published Price Guide, then contact us to confirm the work you need and the costs involved.
View Price GuideUseful to know
No. The current divorce process does not require allegations of blame. You still need to meet the legal requirements, including the rules about the marriage and the court’s jurisdiction.
Yes, a joint application is possible. A sole application is also available. The most suitable approach depends on your circumstances and ability to cooperate over the process.
No. A separate financial order is usually needed to resolve and, where appropriate, dismiss claims. Do not assume that receiving the final divorce order creates a clean financial break.
You normally need to have been married for more than a year. Other options may be relevant, including separation, but they have different legal consequences and requirements.
General information for England and Wales. Contact us for advice about your circumstances.
SJS Solicitors · Balham
