Ending a marriage or civil partnership is a significant life event that can bring emotional and practical challenges to both parties and their wider family. In England and Wales, divorce is only available only after a couple has been married for at least one year.
While divorce legally ends a marriage, it does not automatically settle financial arrangements or child custody matters. These family law issues must be addressed separately through other legal agreements.
Recent changes in the law have made the divorce process more straightforward. Since April 2022, no fault divorce has allowed couples to separate without assigning blame. This means there is no longer a need to prove adultery, unreasonable behaviour, or other specific reasons. The law also allows couples to apply jointly and prevents one party from contesting the divorce, reducing unnecessary conflict.
At AFG Law, our dedicated divorce solicitors in Manchester provide clear, practical advice tailored to your situation. We understand that every divorce is unique, and our goal is to help you through the uncomfortable process, protecting your interests and minimising stress.
If you need expert legal guidance for your divorce, get in touch with our divorce solicitors in Manchester today.
The Divorce Process: A Step by Step Guide
Going through a divorce can be a complex and emotional experience. While the process of legally ending a marriage or civil partnership in England and Wales usually takes at least six months, various factors, such as disagreements over finances or child arrangements, can extend this timeframe.
If you’re looking into applying for a divorce in Manchester, understanding the steps involved can help you prepare for what lies ahead.
Starting the Divorce Process
An application for divorce must be submitted to the court. This can be done by one spouse (a sole application) or jointly by both parties. The application must include:
- A statement confirming that the marriage has irretrievably broken down.
- A copy of the marriage certificate.
Due to the introduction of no fault divorce in April 2022, there is no longer a requirement to prove wrongdoing, such as adultery or unreasonable behaviour.
Notifying the Other Spouse
If a sole application is made, the court will send a copy of the divorce application to the other spouse (the Respondent). They must confirm receipt by completing an Acknowledgement of Service form.
The 20 Week Reflection Period
Once the divorce application has been approved, a mandatory 20 week waiting period begins. This time period was introduced to allow couples to:
- Reflect on their decision.
- Discuss important matters such as child arrangements and financial settlements.
- Seek legal advice if necessary.
Applying for the Conditional Order
After the 20 week period, the next step is to apply for a Conditional Order (previously known as Decree Nisi). This is the court’s formal confirmation that the legal criteria for divorce have been met.
Finalising the Divorce
A minimum of six weeks after the Conditional Order is issued, the final step is to apply for the Final Order (previously called Decree Absolute). Once this is granted, the marriage is officially dissolved.
Things to Consider Before Legally Ending Your Marriage
Although divorce legally ends a marriage, it does not automatically resolve financial matters or arrangements for children. A separate financial settlement or court order is required to protect your financial interests, both now and in the future.
Failing to secure a financial settlement could leave one party vulnerable to future claims, even years after the divorce is finalised. It is also important to be aware of the remarriage trap, where remarrying before securing a financial order could prevent you from making financial claims against your former spouse.
Divorce is a life changing event that affects your family, finances, and future. Our experienced divorce solicitors in Manchester provide clear, practical advice tailored to your individual situation.
Whether you need help with financial settlements, child arrangements, or understanding your legal rights, our team of family law solicitors are here to support you every step of the way.
Contact our family law team in Manchester team today for expert divorce advice.
The Role of a Divorce Solicitor in Manchester
At AFG Law, our experienced divorce solicitors are here to provide clear, practical, and compassionate guidance throughout the divorce process. We understand that divorce can be emotionally overwhelming, which is why we aim to ease your stress by offering expert legal support at every step.
Here’s how our divorce solicitors can assist you:
- Provide clear legal advice: We offer straightforward, practical advice tailored to your specific situation, ensuring you understand all your options.
- Handle all legal paperwork: From filing the initial divorce application to managing complex financial agreements, we ensure all necessary documents are accurately completed and submitted.
- Offer negotiation support: We focus on resolving disputes amicably through negotiation and mediation, helping you reach agreements without the need for lengthy court battles.
- Ensure a fair financial settlement: Our team works diligently to protect your financial interests, ensuring that assets, pensions, and other financial matters are divided fairly.
- Assist with child arrangements: We help you navigate child custody and living arrangements, always prioritising the best interests of your children.
- Address complex financial matters: Whether dealing with hidden assets, high net worth divorces, or complicated financial structures, we make sure all relevant financial issues are uncovered and dealt with fairly.
- Court representation: If your case requires court intervention, we provide representation to ensure your rights are upheld.
- Post-divorce support: Once your divorce is finalised, we advise on matters such as updating your will and financial settlements.
Our solicitors also encourage alternative dispute resolution (ADR) methods, such as mediation and collaborative law, to help you avoid the stress and costs of court proceedings. However, if litigation is necessary, we provide expert representation to secure a fair outcome.
Divorce Fees
Divorce costs can fluctuate depending on the complexity of the case and the specific requirements of the client. As of March 2025, the standard fee to submit a divorce application is £593. This charge covers the filing of the divorce petition but does not include any additional costs such as legal advice, financial settlements, or child arrangements.
At AFG Law, we offer fixed-fee divorce services. However, the overall expense may increase depending on additional needs, such as negotiating financial settlements, arranging child custody, or using mediation services. Court fees, if applicable, may also add to the total cost.
For clients who choose to use mediation or require further legal support during the process, the costs will vary. We ensure our clients are fully informed about any potential charges before proceeding so there are no surprises.
To learn more about our fixed-fee divorce services or to get a quote based on your specific circumstances, please reach out to our specialist team of divorce lawyers today.
How can AFG Law’s Divorce Solicitors in Manchester Assist?
Our team of experienced family lawyers in the Greater Manchester area are committed to guiding you through the divorce process with professionalism and care. We understand the emotional and legal complexities involved, especially when it comes to dividing assets and resolving financial matters.
We understand that each divorce is unique, and we tailor our approach to suit your specific circumstances, ensuring that your interests are protected and that you receive a fair and just outcome.
From the initial filing to the final resolution, our team will provide comprehensive support at every stage of the divorce process. We are committed to handling all aspects of your case with the utmost professionalism, ensuring that you receive the highest standard of legal representation. You can trust us to guide you through what can be a challenging time with care, efficiency, and expertise.
Contact AFG Law’s family department today by calling 01204 920106 or emailing familysolicitor@afglaw.co.uk for a free initial over the phone consultation.
For further details on divorce or to explore our full range of family law services, please visit our main divorce page here.
AFG Law are authorised and regulated by the Solicitors Regulation Authority (SRA).
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