Filing for divorce: the process
How do I get a divorce? Our step-by-step guide explains what you need to do
It is easier to think of the divorce process as a series of steps, which we outline below.
Step 1
One person or both of you jointly start the divorce application.
You can do this in two ways – usually the application process takes place online, however you can apply through a paper application in some circumstances.
You do not need to give a reason for divorce or blame your spouse, with the new divorce law taking effect in 2022. Instead, you apply on the basis of the irretrievable breakdown of the marriage, which does not need to be proven under the new law.
Step 2
The court reviews your application
Once you have filled in your application, you will need to send it to the court, along with either your original marriage certificate or an official copy (which you can obtain from the local registrar for a small charge). You can find the address of your nearest divorce centre on the gov.uk website.
You will also need to pay a fee to apply for a divorce (this is currently £593). Remember that the application will not be issued without a payment being made.
Although it is the responsibility of the applicant(s) to pay the fee, people often agree with their spouse to share the costs (if they are aware the application is being filed at this stage).
If you are on a low income you may be able to get help with the fees, but you will need to make a separate application for this and produce details of your circumstances.
Once your application is issued, the 20-week “reflection” period begins.
Step 3
The court sends your spouse a copy of the application.
If you have chosen a sole application, your spouse will receive the application and will then need to acknowledge the application.
We recommend that you speak to your spouse in advance so they are aware of the reasons you have filed the application. This can help prevent a delay in acknowledgement, which in turn can lead to delays with the divorce process and sometimes incur additional costs.
Step 4
The court grants the conditional order.
If the court is satisfied with your application, the conditional order will be granted.
Step 5
You apply for the final order
Six weeks and a day after your conditional order is granted, you as the applicant are able to apply for the final order (the legal document that officially dissolves your marriage).
At Mayo Wynne Baxter we generally recommend waiting to apply for the final order until any finances or financial agreements relating to your divorce are concluded. Read our advice about settling your finances [link to new Finances page] during a divorce for more information.
Step 6
The court grants the final order
Once the final order is granted you are officially divorced and legally able to remarry if you choose to.
Help with filing for divorce – contact our divorce solicitors today
Going through a divorce or separation can be one of the most stressful periods in your life. If you are unsure of what the divorce process is, or how it works in practice, then the whole thing can feel very overwhelming.
At Mayo Wynne Baxter we’re here to help you through it. Contact our divorce law team if you have any questions.
Why choose Mayo Wynne Baxter's legal services
Exceptional service from outstanding people. The law can be complicated so we will guide you through each step of the way and give you only the very best advice for your situation. We offer specialised legal services with a client-centred approach. Our experienced team of solicitors is committed to delivering high-quality advice and support across a broad range of legal areas, both for individuals and businesses.
- Local expertise - As a leading Sussex law firm, we understand the unique challenges and opportunities faced by businesses in our area.
- Specialist team - Our team of specialists has the experience and expertise to handle even the most complex share option schemes.
- Tailored solutions - We take a practical, client-first approach, delivering solutions designed to meet the specific needs of regional businesses, from family-owned business, SMEs to larger organisations.
- Proven experience - We’ve worked with a diverse range of clients, helping businesses of all sizes achieve their goals through well-structured share option schemes.
- Award-winning firm - Recognised across Sussex and the southeast for our legal services.
- Trusted advisers - With a focus on building lasting relationships, We are dedicated to providing clear, straightforward advice that helps your business succeed.
What to expect when you contact us
- Once you have completed the contact form or called us, our client service team will call you back, to ask a few questions including your preferred method of contact. This information is then passed directly to the Legal Adviser who will be working for you. Once you are happy to proceed we will gather all the relevant information and your file will be opened almost immediately so we can start work.
- A member of the Client Service Team will keep in contact with you on a regular basis throughout your transaction, to make sure you and them are satisfied with the progress of your matter. There is no additional charge to you for their involvement.
- We are here to assist you and ensure everything proceeds as smoothly as possible. You will have direct contact details for the client service team, who you can contact at any point during your matter.
Our aim is to make the process as easy and uncomplicated as possible for you.
Rebecca Robinson 
Marwa Hadi-Barnes 
Jessica Partridge 
Grant Parker