Getting a divorce UK

You must have been married for at least one year and either spouse of the marriage can apply to a court in England or Wales for divorce.

One party of the marriage must have resided in England or Wales for at least twelve months previous to the divorce application.

If you were married in another country but wish to divorce in the UK you can apply for a divorce in England/Wales as long as you have been domiciled or habitually resident in England or Wales for at least one year to legally apply for a divorce.

What are the first steps towards divorce proceedings?

Before you start any formal divorce proceedings you should ensure you are aware of the procedures and your legal rights. Whilst the world abounds with divorce experts, take advice only for a quallified divorce solicitor.

Is your marriage worth saving? have you thought about mediation or counselling?

What are the grounds for divorce?

In legal terms there is only one basic ground for divorce: the irretrievable breakdown of the marriage.

You will need to prove irretrievable breakdown of the marriage by establishing one or more of the following facts or evidence for divorce:

Adultery
Unreasonable behaviour
Desertion
Two years separation if both parties agree
Five years separation

If you personally file for divorce you are the 'petitioner' whilst your spouse is called the 'respondent'.

Your evidence is set out in a document called a petition.

A divorce law solicitor will complete the petition with you.