Changes to divorce laws from the 6th April 2022 mean that that marriages can be brought to an end without the need for one partner or the other to apportion any blame for the breakdown of a relationship. The changes, commonly referred to as 'no fault divorce laws', mean that an individual or couple can file a statement confirming that the marriage has irretrievably broken down, and the Court will then make a divorce order, without the need for further evidence.

Hayley Veale, Head of Family Law at Thatcher + Hallam, is one of many Family Law Practitioners who have been campaigning for the changes for many years. "This is the first change to divorce law in 50 years and is very much welcomed. The previous laws often caused more problems for couples looking to divorce, at what is an already challenging time."

The new rules prevent one spouse objecting to a divorce if the other wants one, since the initial statement that the marriage has broken down will be regarded as conclusive evidence. After a minimum period of 20 weeks the Court will make a Conditional Divorce Order (previously known as Decree Nisi) and, after a further 6 weeks, an application can be made for a Final Divorce Order (previously called a Decree Absolute).

"The new laws will not change the way the Courts have to deal with financial issues or child arrangements', explained Hayley. "But they will allow couples to make practical decisions about their divorce without one of them having to feel responsible for the end of the relationship."

For more information on how the Family Team at Thatcher + Hallam can support you in circumstances where you are considering a divorce, including the offer of a free half hour telephone consultation, please visit https://th-law.co.uk/for-people/family-law/ or call 01761 414646.