A Step-by-Step Guide to Divorce Proceedings in the UK

The divorce process can feel daunting. No matter if a divorce process is beginning with you or if you are responding to it, knowing what the UK Divorce Process involves helps you feel more in control. The silver lining is that the UK’s updated divorce laws will help bring clarity to this life change, enabling you to cope with it with more confidence.

In this guide, you’ll find a step-by-step breakdown of what to expect—from checking eligibility to receiving your Final Order—plus insights on timelines, documents, and support options along the way.

Understanding the basics of divorce in the UK

According to the prevailing laws of the UK, it is not mandatory for you to prove any guilt such as adultery or unreasonable behaviour. To establish a divorce, inform the court that your marriage is beyond reconciliation. This is what is referred to as “no-fault divorce”, as part of the Divorce, Dissolution and Separation Act enacted in April 2022.

Step-by-step divorce process in the UK

Step 1 – Choose between sole or joint application

You can apply for divorce on your own (sole application) or together with your spouse (joint application).

• Joint Application: Best if you both agree on the divorce
• Sole Application: Ideal if your spouse is uncooperative or you don’t wish to involve them in the process

Both application types follow the same overall timeline and legal process.

Step 2 – Submit your application

Once you’ve chosen how to apply, you’ll need to:

• Complete the application form online or by post
• Pay the court fee (currently £593)
• Provide your original or certified marriage certificate
• Submit identification and address verification

You can start this process online via the government portal.

The court will then review your application and serve it to your spouse if you’re applying alone.

Step 3 – Acknowledge service (if sole application)

If you’re the sole applicant in UK Divorce Process, your spouse will receive an official Acknowledgement of Service form to confirm they’ve received the divorce papers.

They must respond within 14 days. If they ignore it, you may apply for the divorce to proceed regardless—but you might need legal help to continue. For advice, you can contact Ratcliffes Solicitors.

Step 4 – Wait the mandatory 20-Week period

After the application is accepted, you’ll enter a 20-week reflection period. This gives both of you time to consider reconciliation or prepare emotionally and practically for separation.

During this time, it’s a good idea to:

• Explore mediation for financial or child arrangements
• Consult with a solicitor if you need tailored legal advice
• Begin documenting assets, debts, and custody preferences

This waiting period is an integral part of the UK Divorce Process.

Step 5 – Apply for the Conditional Order

Once the 20-week period is complete, you can apply for a Conditional Order (formerly known as the Decree Nisi). This confirms that the court sees no reason why the divorce can’t proceed.

No court hearing is required in most cases. If approved, you’ll receive confirmation of the date the Conditional Order is granted.

Step 6 – Wait another 6 weeks

After your Conditional Order is granted, there’s a six-week waiting period in UK Divorce Process before you can finalise the divorce. This gives you time to resolve any outstanding issues, such as division of assets or spousal maintenance.

Step 7 – Apply for the Final Order

After six weeks and one day, you can apply for the Final Order (formerly Decree Absolute). This is the legal document that officially ends your marriage.

Once the Final Order is issued, your divorce is complete, marking the final step in the UK Divorce Process. For legal support, click here.

Key documents you’ll need

To complete the UK divorce process, you’ll need to gather the following:

• Your original marriage certificate or a certified copy
• Proof of identity and residence (e.g. passport, utility bill)
• Financial disclosures or agreements (for settlements or maintenance)
• Child arrangement proposals, if applicable

These help ensure everything runs smoothly, especially when financial or custody matters are involved. Don’t overlook financial and legal settlements.

Division of assets

You’re not automatically entitled to a 50/50 split—unless you’ve been married for a long time and a court applies the “yardstick of equality”. Shorter marriages may consider pre-marital assets separately.

You and your spouse can reach your own agreement, but if you can’t, a court will decide based on fairness, need, and contribution.

For guidance on financial settlements, visit our page here.

Spousal maintenance

If one of you earns significantly more, the court may order maintenance payments. These can be:

• Monthly or lump sum
• Temporary or long-term
• Adjusted based on income, need, and other responsibilities

You can agree privately or let the court decide.

Child maintenance

Child support is not automatically covered in a divorce. If you can’t agree on an amount, the Child Maintenance Service (CMS) can help calculate payments based on the paying parent’s income and number of children involved.

Final Thoughts

The UK Divorce Process should not be a complex or aggressive process. If you know what to do, understand your rights and enlist help when you need it, you’re more likely to come out of the process feeling informed and empowered.

Whether you are just starting to think about divorce, or you are already ready to file your Final Order — you have a roadmap to follow now. And if things become a little too confusing, talking to a family solicitor can give people clarity and support.

Contact us here for personalised support.