Divorce, nullity and judicial separation

The breakdown of a marriage is never easy.

Whether you are considering divorce, exploring annulment or looking at a judicial separation as an alternative, having trusted legal advice is essential.

Our specialist family solicitors provide clear and compassionate guidance to help you move forward with your life and protect your interests and family.

Divorce

Divorce can be an emotional and challenging process. Our specialist family lawyers help you understand your options and the right steps to take.

Since 6 April 2022, under the Divorce Dissolution and Separation Act 2020, there is no longer a requirement to prove that a marriage has irretrievably broken down by establishing one of the previous five facts in respect of behaviour, adultery or separation.

The only requirement now is to provide a statement or irretrievable breakdown of the marriage or civil partnership.

The new divorce law therefore removes the need for blame in divorce proceedings and is widely referred to as the “no blame” or “no fault” divorce.

We can help you with:

  • Preparing and filing a sole or joint divorce application
  • Applying for the conditional and final orders
  • Negotiating a financial settlement ancillary to the divorce
  • Managing child arrangements and parental responsibility
  • Supporting you through mediation and other non-court dispute resolution (NCDR) where appropriate
  • Guiding you and assisting you with financial remedy proceedings if matters cannot be resolved amicably
  • Drafting legally binding consent orders to formalise financial agreements

Our focus is on resolving matters constructively and efficiently, while making sure your wishes are being considered.

Nullity

In some circumstances, a marriage may be annulled rather than ended by divorce.

An annulment declares that the marriage was either void (not legally valid from the start) or voidable (legally valid but later invalid due to specific circumstances).

Annulment is not always a straightforward process, but we are here to guide you through the process and make sure you take the right legal steps.

Our family law solicitors can:

  • Advise you on whether your marriage is eligible for nullity
  • Prepare and submit your nullity application
  • Guide you through the conditional and final order process

Having the right support in place from the start can help you know if annulment is the best choice for your situation.

Judicial separation

A judicial separation allows you to formalise your separation without having to end your marriage.

This may be the right option if divorce is not suitable for you, due to personal, financial or religious reasons.

Our specialist family law team can:

  • Advise you on whether judicial separation is appropriate
  • Prepare and file a sole or joint application
  • Negotiate agreements
  • Guide you on court proceedings, if necessary

A judicial separation can be complex and involve financial and property claims. We can offer you reassurance and clarity throughout the whole process.

Speak to our Family Law team

If you are considering divorce, nullity or judicial separation, our experienced Family Law solicitors are here to help you understand your options and take the right steps.