Family Law Blog : Divorce & Separation

Guidance and advice on divorce, separation, and family law matters

Final order in divorce: what it is, how to apply and how long it takes (2026)

In brief A final order (formerly called a decree absolute) is the legal document that officially ends your marriage. Under the no-fault divorce system introduced on 6 April 2022, you can apply for your final order six weeks and one day after the court grants your conditional order. The earliest…

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How to prepare for divorce: a practical UK checklist

In brief Preparing for divorce is about more than paperwork, it means looking after your emotional wellbeing, understanding your financial position, and learning how the legal process works before you take the first formal step. This guide walks you through a practical checklist for divorce preparation in the UK, covering…

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Am I entitled to spousal maintenance?

Am I entitled to spousal maintenance

In brief Spousal maintenance is financial support paid by one spouse to the other after a marriage ends. It is not an automatic entitlement. Whether you can claim spousal maintenance depends on your financial needs, your ability to support yourself, and your former spouse’s ability to pay. The court considers…

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Divorce advice and tips for men and dads in the UK

Divorce Tips for Men | Divorce Tips for Dads

In brief Going through a divorce is one of the most stressful experiences anyone can face, and men often feel unsure where to turn for guidance. The good news is that the law in England and Wales does not favour one gender over the other. Men have the same legal…

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What am I entitled to in a divorce? (2026 guide)

What am I entitled to in a divorce settlement

In brief There is no fixed formula for what you will receive in a divorce settlement. The court’s starting point is a broadly equal division of matrimonial assets, but the final outcome depends on the specific circumstances of your marriage. Under Section 25 of the Matrimonial Causes Act 1973, the…

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How to tell your husband or wife you want a divorce: a solicitor’s guide (2026)

Divorce - telling your spouse

In brief Choose a private, calm moment, ideally when children are not present, and be direct but compassionate. Use “I” statements rather than blame, and be prepared for a range of emotional reactions. It helps to speak to a solicitor before the conversation so you understand your rights and options….

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What is an occupation order in the UK?

Victims of domestic abuse often report that they no longer feel safe in the comfort of their own home. Living with fear, control and violence can be overwhelming and deeply distressing. While one option may be to leave the family home, this is not always straightforward, particularly where children are…

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What were the highest divorce rates by country in 2025?

Divorce rates vary widely around the world. Some countries report unusually high numbers of divorces per 1,000 people each year, while others maintain very low figures, often reflecting cultural norms, legal systems, social attitudes and family structures. While this article is framed around 2025, most global divorce statistics are published with…

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When to walk away from a sexless marriage

Many couples experience periods where intimacy fades, especially during stressful life events such as having children, health problems, or work pressures. However, when a marriage becomes sexless for a long period of time, it can raise serious questions about the future of the relationship. If you are in this situation…

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Uncontested divorce: what is it and how does it work?

Divorce can be a difficult and emotional process. However, not all divorces involve conflict or lengthy court battles. An uncontested divorce is a simpler, faster way to end a marriage when both parties agree the relationship has broken down and do not dispute the divorce itself. This article explains what…

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What are the main reasons for divorce in the UK?

When a marriage breaks down, many people ask what are the reasons for divorce, and, of those, which are the most common in the UK? The most frequent causes include unreasonable behaviour, infidelity and affairs, and a lack of communication or emotional connection that can lead couples to grow apart….

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How to divorce a narcissist

Divorcing a narcissist requires careful, strategic planning, acting with a lawyer, and maintaining strict boundaries to protect yourself. Key steps include gathering financial documents, adopting a strict “no contact” or limited contact policy using parenting apps, and focusing on legal evidence rather than emotional reactions. Even with a solid plan…

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