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How divorce works, step by step

What actually happens, how long each stage takes, and what you need to do. Written in plain English for England and Wales.

Written by divorcd editorial teamUpdated October 20268 min read

The basics

Since April 2022, England and Wales have had no-fault divorce. That means nobody has to be blamed. You simply state that the marriage has broken down irretrievably.

You can apply on your own (a sole application) or together with your partner (a joint application). Most people apply online through GOV.UK.

Good to know: your divorce and your finances are two separate things. Getting divorced doesn't automatically end your financial ties. More on that below.

The four steps

  1. 1 Day one

    Apply for divorce

    Apply online, alone or together. You'll need your marriage certificate and to pay the court fee, unless you qualify for help with fees.

  2. 2 At least 20 weeks

    The reflection period

    There's a minimum 20-week wait from when the application is issued. It's time to think, and to start agreeing on money and children.

  3. 3 After 20 weeks

    Apply for the conditional order

    This confirms the court sees no reason you can't divorce. You're still legally married at this point.

  4. 4 6 weeks and 1 day later

    Apply for the final order

    This legally ends your marriage. Many people wait until their finances are agreed before applying. Ask a solicitor whether that's right for you.

How long does it take?

Because of the built-in waiting periods, a divorce usually takes at least six to seven months from application to final order. It often takes longer, especially if finances take time to agree.

Sorting out money and property

This is the part that takes the most time, and matters most for your future. It can include:

  • The family home and any other property
  • Pensions, which are often one of the biggest assets
  • Savings, investments and debts
  • Ongoing maintenance

Even if you agree everything between you, a consent order makes the agreement legally binding. Without one, financial claims can stay open, sometimes for years.

Want help with the money side?

Tell us a bit about your situation and we'll introduce you to a vetted family solicitor or mediator near you.

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Children

Arrangements for children (where they live and how much time they spend with each parent) are agreed separately from the divorce itself. Most parents agree these between themselves or with help from a mediator. Courts get involved only when that isn't possible.

Before going to court about children or finances, you'll usually need to attend a Mediation Information and Assessment Meeting (MIAM), unless an exemption applies, for example where there's domestic abuse.

What to do next

  • Gather your documents: marriage certificate, bank statements, pension details
  • Think about whether you'd apply alone or together
  • Get early advice on finances, especially if you own property or have pensions
  • Look after yourself. This is a lot, and support helps.

This guide is general information, not legal advice. Everyone's situation is different. For advice about yours, speak to a qualified family law professional.