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Free Guide · England & Wales · Updated 2025

The divorce process,
step by step

Find out exactly where you are, what happens next, and how long each stage takes. No legal jargon. No waffle. Your progress is saved automatically.

7stages
6–12months typical
£593court fee 2024
Free Guide · England & Wales

The divorce process, step by step

Where you are, what happens next, how long it takes. Progress saved automatically.

7stages
6–12mo typical
£593court fee

Since April 2022, divorce in England and Wales has been governed by the Divorce, Dissolution and Separation Act 2020. The biggest change: you no longer need to blame anyone or prove separation. You simply state that the marriage has broken down irretrievably.

The process has seven stages. Some are quick. Some have mandatory waiting periods. The financial settlement runs in parallel and often takes longest. Click any stage to see what it involves — and mark stages as done to track where you are.

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Where are you in the process?

Tap a stage below. Mark stages done to track progress — saves automatically.

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How long does it actually take?

6–8 mo
Uncontested Agreed finances, joint application, no complications
12–18 mo
Negotiated Financial negotiations, mediation, solicitor involvement
2–3 yr+
Contested Fully contested finances, court hearings, complex assets
⚖ Important: This guide is for information only and does not constitute legal advice. The divorce process varies depending on individual circumstances. Always obtain independent advice from a qualified family law solicitor.
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