How to file for Divorce

Deciding to end a marriage can be an extremely confusing and stressful time, full of uncertainty and not knowing where to turn next.  When families split up, it can raise many questions about how best to move forwards.  Here we have provided some guidance on what happens when you make the decision to divorce.

To be entitled to a divorce, all of the following must apply:

• You have been married for at least a year
• Your relationship has irretrievably broken down
• Your marriage is legally recognised in the UK
• Either yourself or your spouse have a permanent home in the UK

How do I get Divorced?

The stages of the divorce process are as follows:

• Complete a Divorce application online (fee of £612)
• 20 week waiting period
• Apply for a Conditional Order
• Apply for a Final Order (6 weeks and 1 day from the Conditional Order)

What will I need to Divorce?

To apply for a divorce you will need:

• Your spouse’s full name and address
• The original (or certified copy) of the Marriage Certificate. You will need a certified translation if the Marriage Certificate is not in English.
• If you have changed your name since the marriage you will need to provide proof of this.

Grounds for Divorce

Currently, there is only one ground for Divorce and that is that the marriage had broken down irretrievably.

Applying for a Divorce Online

There is now the option of a ‘DIY Divorce’ where you can complete the forms yourself (without instructing a solicitor).  See more information here. However, you do need to be careful and clear of the problems that can occur when choosing to Divorce without instructing a Solicitor. DIY divorces do not always go to plan and you may find you need to instruct a Solicitor to represent you.

Instructing Andrew Isaacs Law to deal with your Divorce

When it comes to divorce law, we have a great wealth of experience in achieving amicable outcomes even in the most awkward and difficult situations.  We know from experience that each person’s situation is unique. We have seen virtually everything over the years. This is where our expertise can be vital in protecting your interests.

You may have concerns relating to arrangements for your children, your finances or even the family home.

If you can reach an agreement with your spouse, it is essential that it means what you think it does. You can ensure this by speaking to us and letting us draft or amend any documents. Divorce and family law can be very complicated, especially if you get it wrong!

What about our Finances?

Your finances are completely separate from your divorce and even if you are divorced it is imperative that you take advice in respect of resolving financial matters and are aware of the risks if you do not.

Contact us to arrange a consultation with one of our dedicated family lawyers who can talk you through the process, provide you with clear understandable legal advice and a tailored plan of action based on your own unique situation in order to protect yourself, your family and you finances.

Article dated 24.11.25

Amanda Page Senior Family Law Solicitor

Amanda is our Senior Supervisory Solicitor.  She deals with a wide variety of Family Law matters, although her passion is within Children Law.  Disputes concerning children can be extremely distressing for those involved.  Amanda has an empathic approach and will provide her clients with clear constructive advice, achieving the best possible outcome for them.  The best interest of the child will always be at the forefront of her mind.

Amanda has over 40 years’ experience within the legal sector and qualified as a Solicitor in 1985.  She has a BA in Social Sciences and completed the Law Society Final Examinations.

Amanda was the Co-ordinator/Trustee of the Derby Child Contact Centre for 21 years and is a Trustee of Behcets UK and a charitable Director of Behcets Patient Centres.