Family law
No-fault divorce lawyers
The introduction of no-fault divorce has changed the way couples are able to separate. Our trusted experts are advising clients nationwide, helping them start their new chapter.
How can our UK no-fault divorce lawyers help?
Our trusted and experienced team of no fault divorce solicitors will guide you through the divorce process, providing expert guidance and support every step of the way.
To speak to one of our experts, simply get in touch on 0330 041 5869, or, if you prefer, you can contact us via our online form or web chat.
Talk to an experienced solicitor today
Contact usWhat is no-fault divorce?
No fault divorce means that spouses no longer need to assign blame in order to be granted a divorce if they haven’t been separated for two years or more.
The previous divorce law required the petitioner in the divorce to rely on one of five facts to prove the irretrievable breakdown of the marriage. Two of the facts were fault-based. They were:
- Adultery
- Unreasonable behaviour
- Two years' separation with the Respondent’s consent
- Five years' separation
- Desertion
What does the new no-fault divorce law propose?
The previous law may have fuelled conflict by forcing one party to blame the other if they wished to avoid waiting two years before presenting a divorce petition to the court.
The no-fault divorce UK legislation has changed this. Under the new law, irretrievable breakdown of marriage remains the overall ground for divorce. However, the five facts have been replaced with a statement of irretrievable breakdown.
Other changes include:
- A 20-week timescale between issue of the petition and the first stage of the divorce - the conditional order - to provide a period of reflection, and a 6-week timescale from conditional order to final order. Therefore, there’s a minimum timeframe of six months from the date the petition is issued to final order.
- The application for divorce can be withdrawn at any time.
- Complex legal jargon is avoided within the divorce process, making it easier to understand.
- The opportunity to contest the divorce has been removed, but there are still some legal grounds for challenging the divorce if needed.
- There’s a choice between initiating the application for divorce jointly or on a sole application basis.
When will no-fault divorce begin in UK?
The new legislation was introduced on 6 April 2022.
Need advice from a specialist no-fault divorce lawyer?
We understand that the process of getting a divorce can feel overwhelming - particularly at what can be an emotional time. With the move to a new divorce law process, it may feel even more overwhelming.
Our trusted team of divorce lawyers are able to guide you through the process simply and efficiently, enabling you to focus on moving forwards in life.
How much is a no-fault divorce?
We offer a competitively priced fixed-fee divorce starting at just £540* plus the court fee.
To speak to one of our experts today, simply get in touch on 0330 041 5869, or, if you prefer, you can contact us via our online form or web chat.
*Prices quoted on this page are inclusive of VAT.
Family support content
Child maintenance guide Guide to entering a civil partnership Difference between cohabitation and marriage UK divorce law explained Difference between marriage and civil partnership Ex won't pay child maintenance How long does divorce take What is adultery? How to start divorce proceedings Disagreements over schoolsThe best solicitors to fight your corner! I struggled with a nasty unmarried couple dispute alone for over a year before biting the bullet and paying for proper legal support. I had one previous experience with a cheaper less well known solicitor and I just felt completely let down and not a priority. But with S&G - from start to finish, I felt supported 100% and valued. B L (family and personal matters case)
Matters were dealt with efficiently with a view to keeping costs to a realistic level and I am well satisfied with the final settlement she managed to achieve on my behalf. J B (family and personal matters case)
For anyone needing help with family issues I could not recommend Slater and Gordon highly enough. I always had the feeling I had the best looking after my interests and they certainly didn't disappoint. C I (family and personal matters case)