Divorce, dissolution & separation.
At Edwards Family Law we understand that deciding to separate can be a difficult, stressful and often very emotional time. Whether you have been served with a petition or wish to end an unhappy marriage, we can guide you through the process and will work with you to ensure that the process is as quick and painless as possible for you, so that you can focus on moving forwards with your life in a positive way.
Whatever the reasons for the separation, we will advise you in a pragmatic and straightforward way enabling you to approach the matter in a way which meets your goals and supports your family where relevant.
FAQs
What does “No Fault Divorce” mean?
The Divorce, Dissolution and Separation Act (DDSA) 2020, which came into force in April 2022, changed divorce laws in England and Wales, which have been in place for many years. It is now not possible to cite blame, adultery, or periods of separation as reasons for the breakdown of the marriage or civil partnership.
Under the DDSA 2020, neither party has to ‘blame’ the other for the marriage breaking down. Instead, one or both parties simply need to make a statement that the relationship has ‘irretrievably broken down’. There is no scope for one party to contest or defend the divorce to prevent it from proceeding. The Court must accept the individual’s or couple’s statement that the marriage has irretrievably broken down. The first order the court will make is called the Conditional Order (as was ‘Decree Nisi’), and the order which dissolves the marriage is called the Final Order (as was ‘Decree Absolute’).
Allowing for joint divorce applications provides a solid and sensible foundation for couples to complete divorce negotiations, allowing them to instead focus on the financial settlement and the arrangements for children where necessary.
What is the process for starting a divorce?
The divorce process is now conducted almost exclusively online via the Government Portal, which has enabled the court to process divorce proceedings more efficiently. We work with you to achieve the final order in the divorce proceedings and advise you on all aspects of the process, including liaising with your spouse or civil partner, or their legal representative, as necessary.
We have extensive experience in advising parties before they make the decision to divorce. Deciding to get divorced is a significant life decision, and it’s common for individuals to want a better understanding of their entitlements and obligations before proceeding. This may include questions about the well-being of the children involved or even the family pet.
How long does a divorce take in England and Wales?
Under the new legislation, there is a minimum timeframe of six months for divorce proceedings. There is a mandatory period of twenty weeks from the application stage to conditional order, followed by six weeks from conditional order to final order. The required twenty-week period allows couples the opportunity to reflect before the conditional order is issued, which is when many couples start to ‘feel divorced,’ even though the legal dissolution is not finalised until the final order.
How do I apply for divorce?
If you’re considering a divorce or have questions about the divorce process in the UK, contact our team of divorce lawyers at Edwards Family Law. We specialise in complex divorce, and we can guide you through the entire divorce process. Whether you’re looking for a solicitor for divorce or need assistance with divorce mediation, our team is here to help you every step of the way.
Free Consultation
We offer a free 45-minute consultation to all qualifying individuals, who have complex cases and want to be represented by our leading family and divorce lawyers. After 45 minutes, please note that our time is charged at our hourly rates.
During a free consultation with our experienced divorce solicitors and family solicitors, you can expect a comprehensive discussion about divorce in the UK (England and Wales). We’ll walk you through the process of how to get a divorce, covering important topics such as the divorce application, laws on divorce and your financial rights and obligations following a divorce.
Our lawyers will provide insight into divorce law, including no-fault divorce, and help you understand the divorce process, including divorce filing and court proceedings. We’ll also discuss the cost of divorce, giving you a clear picture of what to expect financially. Our team of solicitors also can provide comprehensive legal guidance in issues such as child arrangements (also known as “child custody”), spousal support, and property division.
We’re here to assist you in every aspect of getting a divorce or family issue, making the process as smooth and stress-free as possible. Whether you’re seeking advice on family arrangements or need guidance on a divorce consent order our experts in family law are here to help.
We endeavour to respond to all new enquiries within a few hours but sometimes with other commitments such as court hearings, that might not be possible. At most, we will get back to you within 24 hours. If you require urgent or immediate assistance, please contact the team by email contact@edwardsfamilylaw.co.uk, flagging the urgency and we will do whatever we can to assist, if proportionate and possible on the facts of your individual case.
Meet our Lawyers
Kelly Edwards
Managing PartnerWith over 15 years experience in dealing with Complex Family Law matters, Kelly will be able to guide you through any aspect of your case with speed and ease.
Daniel Chalmers
PartnerDan has significant experience in all aspects of family law. He specialises particularly in divorce and associated financial matters, representing clients in High Net Worth disputes involving assets in multiple jurisdictions. In recent years Dan has represented numerous Ultra High Net Worth individuals including sports professionals and celebrities having worked at a top Central London media and entertainment law firm.
Sarah Hogarth
Senior AssociateSarah advises clients on all aspects of family law, with a particular focus on resolving complex financial issues for high-net-worth individuals.
Chloë Ashman
Associate SolicitorChloë’s legal practice encompasses all aspects of financial remedy, Schedule 1, private children and prenuptial and post nuptial agreements.
Charlotte Lanning
Senior AssociateCharlotte has a vast array of experience in all of the issues that can arise from relationship breakdown with a particular focus on complex financial matters, often with an international dimension
Isobel Rarok
Senior AssociateIsobel is experienced in all aspects of divorce and dealing with High Net Worth and complex financial matters together with advising on pre and post nuptial agreements
Kate Pooler
Associate SolicitorKate advises on all aspects of family law, including divorce, financial remedy, Schedule 1 Children Act cases, pre- and post-nuptial agreements, concerns around behaviour associated with relationship breakdown and all matters relating to co-parenting
Charlotte Stringer
Assistant SolicitorCharlotte advises on all aspects of family law arising from the breakdown of a marriage including divorce, financial settlements, private law children matters and non-molestation and occupation orders.