Applying for divorce

If you and your ex-partner wish to terminate your marriage.

You can still choose to pursue divorce, even if you reach amicable agreements through family mediation.

People often discuss the divorce process and make decisions about applying for divorce during mediation. Family mediation provides a safe, neutral environment for these conversations to take place.

The quickest and most cost-effective way to apply for divorce is online. If you and your ex-partner both agree to it, one of you can apply for a ‘no-fault divorce’. You can also instruct a solicitor to do it on your behalf.

Divorce does not legally divide any shared assets. In order to end the financial relationship between you and your ex-partner, you’ll need to reach a financial settlement and have a consent order produced.

There are two forms you’ll need to complete as part of the divorce process. They are Form D8 and Form D36.

The process takes a minimum of 26 weeks. See further instructions on how to apply for divorce below.

How to apply

The steps you need to take to terminate your marriage.

Complete a divorce application either together with your ex-partner or individually by filling out Form D8. You can submit your application either online or by post. The fee is £ 593.

Your application will be sent to your ex-partner by the court. They will need to agree and respond.

Once you’ve received agreement from your ex-partner and 20 weeks have passed, you can apply for a conditional order.

This confirms that you’re eligible for divorce and that all forms have been correctly completed.

You can apply for a final order six weeks after receiving your conditional order by filling out Form D36. Once you receive your final order, your marriage has been terminated and you are legally divorced.

More information