Divorce
Expert Divorce Solicitors in London
Our experienced divorce lawyers provide comprehensive legal support through every stage of your divorce proceedings. From initial consultation to decree absolute, we ensure your rights are protected while working towards the best possible outcome. Contact us today: 0203 909 8399 | Book a Consultation
What Is Divorce?
Divorce is the legal dissolution of a marriage. In the UK, you can apply for divorce if you’ve been married for at least one year and your relationship has permanently broken down. This includes same-sex marriages and marriages legally recognised in the UK.
Are You Eligible for Divorce?
You can apply for divorce if:
- You’ve been married for at least one year
- Your marriage is legally recognised in the UK
- Your relationship has permanently broken down
- You can prove one of the five legal grounds
Grounds for Divorce
To show your marriage has irretrievably broken down, you must prove one of these five reasons:
Adultery
- Your spouse had intercourse with someone of the opposite sex
- You find it intolerable to live with them
- Must file within six months of discovering the adultery
- Note: UK law doesn’t recognise same-sex relations as adultery
Unreasonable Behaviour
- Mental or physical cruelty
- Abuse or neglect
- Financial irresponsibility
- Alcohol or drug problems
- Refusal to contribute to marriage
Separation with Consent
- Living apart for two years
- Both parties agree to divorce
- Can live in same property if separate lives
Separation without Consent
- Living apart for five years
- No spousal consent required
- Rarely challenged by courts
Desertion
- Spouse abandoned you for two years
- Without your agreement
- Without good reason
- Intention to end the marriage
The Divorce Process
Step 1: File the Petition
Submit divorce petition to court stating:
- Your grounds for divorce
- Supporting evidence
- Financial arrangements sought
- Child arrangement proposals
Step 2: Decree Nisi
Court grants provisional divorce order:
- Confirms grounds are satisfied
- Spouse has opportunity to object
- Sets timeline for final decree
- Allows financial negotiations
Step 3: Decree Absolute
Final divorce order after six weeks:
- Legally ends the marriage
- Allows remarriage
- Finalises divorce status
- Cannot be reversed
Financial Matters in Divorce
Property Division
- Family home decisions
- Investment properties
- Business assets
- Overseas properties
Financial Support
- Spousal maintenance
- Child maintenance
- Interim support orders
- Long-term provisions
Pensions and Savings
- Pension sharing orders
- Savings division
- Investment portfolios
- Future provision planning
Children in Divorce
- Custody Arrangements – Determining primary residence
- Access Rights – Contact schedule for non-resident parent
- Financial Support – Child maintenance calculations
- Decision Making – Parental responsibility matters
Complex Divorce Issues
Hidden Assets
- Asset tracing services
- Financial disclosure orders
- Forensic accounting
- International asset searches
International Elements
- Jurisdiction disputes
- Foreign property division
- International enforcement
- Cross-border maintenance
Immigration Status After Divorce
- Dependent visa implications
- Right to remain applications
- Settlement status options
- Urgent immigration advice needed
Why Choose Connaught Law
- Specialist divorce lawyers
- High net worth expertise
- International divorce experience
- Skilled financial negotiators
- Sensitive child arrangement handling
Our Divorce Services
- Initial case assessment
- Document preparation
- Court representation
- Financial settlement negotiation
- Child arrangement agreements
- Post-divorce modifications
Next Steps
Don’t navigate divorce proceedings alone. Our expert team provides the guidance and support you need during this challenging time. Whether straightforward or complex, we’ll protect your interests throughout. Call 0203 909 8399 or Book Online for a confidential consultation.