How long does a no-fault divorce take?

What the Law Says

The Divorce, Dissolution and Separation Act 2020 introduced no-fault divorce in England and Wales, removing the need to allege misconduct or separation fault. It sets clear timeframes for the process.

Under the new law, couples no longer need to prove fault (e.g., adultery or unreasonable behaviour) or live apart for two or five years. Instead, one or both parties simply state that the marriage has broken down irretrievably.

The process has two main stages: first, applying for a 'conditional order' (formerly decree nisi), and second, applying for the 'final order' (formerly decree absolute). A mandatory waiting period ensures reflection and consideration before finalising the divorce.

Statutory Text

A court may not make a conditional order unless the applicant has waited at least 20 weeks from the date on which the application for the conditional order was made.

— Divorce, Dissolution and Separation Act 2020, s. 1 — Conditional order

What to Do

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