Change in Divorce Law April 6th 2022

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The Divorce, Dissolution and Separation Act 2020 introduces the no-fault divorce from today, the 6 April 2022.  It fundamentally changes the law and procedure in relation to divorce and dissolution of Civil partnerships.

The new rules now introduce a 26-week period between the start of divorce proceedings and the final divorce order being made (formerly called Decree Absolute).

The divorce application can now be filed at the court by either party or as a joint divorce application (but the Court fee remains at £593). The stages in the divorce process, which were previously known as Decree Nisi (applied for 20 weeks after issue) and Decree Absolute (6 weeks and one day after Decree Nisi) can now be applied for individually and jointly.  Therefore, one spouse can submit the divorce application and the other spouse can then apply for the first decree and then they can both apply for the final divorce order.

Solicitors are generally pleased with this change in the law because the removal of blame in an already emotionally charged situation appears to be a positive step for many families.

If you require advice in relation to divorce or other family matters, contact our experienced divorce lawyer team on Llandudno 874774 or Conwy 596596.