Divorce Solicitors Stockport: Expert Legal Advice

What is Divorce?

Divorce is the legal process of formally ending a marriage or civil partnership. In England and Wales, a couple must have been married for at least one year before they can apply for a divorce.

The introduction of no fault divorce in April 2022 means that couples no longer need to assign blame or prove wrongdoing to obtain a divorce. Instead, they simply need to confirm that the marriage has irretrievably broken down.

The divorce process typically takes a minimum of six months to complete, though delays may arise due to financial negotiations, child arrangements, or disputes over assets.

It is important to note that divorce itself does not resolve financial matters or arrangements for children. Separate agreements or court orders are required to divide assets, secure financial settlements, or establish child custody arrangements. Seeking expert legal advice ensures that these matters are handled fairly and in a way that protects your long term interests.

At AFG Law, our experienced divorce solicitors in Stockport provide clear, practical guidance at every stage of the process. Whether you need assistance with filing for divorce, negotiating a financial settlement, or arranging child custody, we are here to support you in achieving a fair resolution.

If you would like more information on any area of family law, our team are here to help.

What is the process for obtaining a divorce?

Experiencing a relationship breakdown can be an emotionally challenging and stressful time. Our family law solicitors are committed to easing the stress of divorce by providing expert guidance and support throughout the process.

A brief overview of the process is as follows:

Submitting the Divorce Application

• The person applying for divorce (the Applicant) submits a divorce application to the court.
• A joint application can also be made by both spouses.
• The application must confirm that the marriage has irretrievably broken down, as required under the no fault divorce law.

Serving the Divorce Papers

• If a sole application is made, the court sends the divorce application to the Respondent (the other spouse).
• The Respondent must acknowledge receipt within 14 days.

Reflection Period (Minimum 20 Weeks)

• A mandatory 20 week waiting period follows to allow time for reflection and possible reconciliation.
• This period also allows couples to make arrangements for child custody and financial settlements if necessary.

Applying for a Conditional Order

• After the reflection period, the Applicant can apply for a Conditional Order (previously Decree Nisi).
• A judge reviews the case and, if satisfied, grants the Conditional Order.

Finalising the Divorce (Minimum 6 Weeks)

• There is a further six week waiting period before applying for the Final Order. This allows time for financial matters to be settled.
• After six weeks, the Applicant can apply for the Final Order (previously Decree Absolute).
• Once granted, the marriage is legally dissolved.

In England and Wales, the divorce process typically takes a minimum of six months, though the timeline can vary depending on individual circumstances and the complexity of each case.

However, the divorce itself does not automatically settle financial matters or child arrangements. Financial settlements require separate negotiations or a court issued financial order to ensure a fair division of assets.

Similarly, child arrangements, including custody and child support, must be agreed upon separately or determined by the court in case of disputes.

Our solicitors can guide you through these processes alongside your divorce, ensuring that all responsibilities are properly addressed and that you achieve a fair and equitable outcome.

Can I contest a divorce?

Under the no fault divorce system introduced in 2022, it is no longer possible to object to a divorce simply because one party disagrees with ending the marriage.

If your spouse has applied for a sole divorce application, you cannot contest it unless there are exceptional legal grounds, such as questions surrounding the validity of the marriage or if the divorce contains fraudulent or procedural errors.

How much does a divorce cost?

The standard court fee for applying for a divorce in England and Wales is currently £593 as of March 2025. This fee covers the divorce application itself and does not include any additional legal expenses or financial arrangements.

Recognising that each divorce is unique, our family law team offers services on a fixed fee basis, providing clarity and predictability. However, it’s important to understand that the overall cost may vary depending on the complexity of your situation and the need for additional services. These services can include child arrangement orders, financial settlements, mediation, and family court fees.

To discuss our fixed fee divorce services and receive a personalised cost estimate tailored to your specific needs, please contact a member of our team today.

Will I need to attend court?

Under the no fault divorce process, couples are generally not required to attend court. The divorce process has been streamlined to reduce conflict and make it easier for couples to dissolve their marriage.

However, if there are disputes regarding financial settlements and child custody issues, the court may become involved to help resolve these matters.

How can AFG Law’s divorce solicitors in Stockport assist?

Navigating divorce can be emotionally challenging, particularly when addressing financial settlements and asset division. Our team of experienced family lawyers, based in the Greater Manchester area, is dedicated to providing professional and compassionate guidance throughout the process. Client care is a top priority.

We tailor our approach to your specific circumstances, ensuring your interests are protected and you achieve a fair outcome. From the initial application to the final resolution, we offer support at every stage.

If you would like more information on any aspect of family law, our team are here to help.

Contact our Stockport law firm 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).