Divorce

Unlike the popular image of lawyers we are not divorce brokers and we will ask you if your marriage can be saved and explain the full implications of proceeding with a divorce to you.

You can only proceed with a divorce if you have been married for at least one year and are of the opinion that the marriage has irretrievably broken down.  In order to prove an irretrievable breakdown of your marriage you have to rely on one or more of five facts, as follows:-

  • That the other party has committed adultery and you find it intolerable to live with them.
  • That the other party has behaved unreasonably and you should not be expected to live with them.
  • That the other party has deserted you for a period of two years.
  • That you have lived separately for at least two years and the other party consents to a divorce.
  • That you have lived separately for at least five years (in this case the other party does not need to consent).

In the vast majority of cases there is no need for either party to attend court when proceeding with a divorce.  Often, obtaining a decree of divorce is the most straightforward aspect of marriage breakdown and it is usually in connection with arrangements for children and financial provision that the potential for dispute can arise.  We are able to provide various fixed fee options in connection with obtaining a divorce.