Divorce, the legal termination of a marriage, can be a stressful and emotionally challenging process for all parties involved. In the UK, there are only five grounds for divorce: adultery, unreasonable behaviour, desertion, two years of separation with consent, and five years of separation without consent.
Adultery refers to a spouse having sexual intercourse with someone of the opposite sex outside the marriage. Unreasonable behaviour covers a range of conduct that the other spouse finds unacceptable and cannot reasonably be expected to live with, such as physical or verbal abuse, neglect, or excessive drinking or drug use. Desertion refers to a spouse leaving the marriage without the consent of the other member, and with the intention of ending the marriage. Two years of separation with consent and five years of separation without consent refer to a situation where the spouses have been living apart for a specified period and either agree or do not agree to the divorce.
It is important to note that the divorce process in the UK can only be initiated by one spouse and must be based on one of the above-mentioned grounds; if clarification is required, you should seek out a divorce solicitor in Guildford.
The divorce petition and its requirements
The first step of the divorce process is to file a divorce petition, also known as a writ for divorce, with the court. The petition must specify the grounds for divorce and include supporting evidence, such as proof of adultery or unreasonable behaviour. It is also necessary to provide information, including the date and place of the wedding and the names and birthdates of any children of the marriage.
In addition, the petitioner must serve the petition on the other spouse, who then has the opportunity to contest the divorce. If the other spouse does not contest the divorce, the process can proceed relatively smoothly. If there is a dispute, the divorce process can become much more complicated and time-consuming.
The role of mediation in UK divorce law
Mediation is where a neutral third party organises communication between the spouses to reach a mutually acceptable agreement on issues related to the divorce, such as property division, child custody, and maintenance. In the UK. It is now a requirement for most couples to attend a mediation information and assessment meeting (MIAM) before proceeding with court action.
Mediation can be a useful tool for reducing the conflict and stress of the divorce process, and for reaching a settlement that both parties are happy with. It can also save time and money, as court proceedings can be lengthy and expensive.
Finalising the divorce: decree nisi and decree absolute
Once the court has received the divorce petition and the other spouse has not contested it, the court will grant a ‘decree nisi’. This is a provisional order that confirms that the grounds for divorce have been met and that the court is satisfied that the marriage has irretrievably broken down.
After a period of six weeks and one day, the petitioner can apply for the ‘decree absolute’, which is the final order that officially ends the marriage. It is important to note that either spouse can apply for the decree absolute, and that the process cannot be completed until a financial settlement has been reached, if applicable.