The decision to end your marriage is often incredibly difficult. Divorce proceedings can also be a stressful and emotional time for many and can be compounded by the need to find “blame” for the breakdown of the marriage.
Understanding no fault divorce
In June 2020, the Government introduced the Divorce, Dissolution and Separation Act 2020, known as the “no-fault” divorce bill, which is due to take effect in 2021. This now means that, from 2021, the concept of fault is removed when issuing divorce proceedings.
The main ground for divorce will continue to be the irretrievable breakdown of the marriage. However, the new legislation will remove the need to provide evidence of conduct or separation to support one of the five ‘facts’ for divorce. This means that it will no longer be possible to contest the basis of the divorce unless there are issues surrounding jurisdiction, the legal validity of the marriage, procedural compliance, fraud and/or coercion.
The legislation will also introduce an option for joint applications for divorce. The “no-fault” divorce will remove the potential for conflict within divorce proceedings, allowing separating couples to focus on other important aspects of separation such as the arrangements for their children, and financial and property matters.
We are here to help with no fault divorce.
Here at Jackson Lees, we support the “no-fault” divorce and feel that the Act will help reduce added stress and pressure for couples already facing a challenging time in their lives.
Even through this uncertain time and the constant changes surrounding us, should you find that you require advice on divorce or financial matters, we are very much here to help. The Court system is operating as efficiently as possible and matters are still being progressed.
If you have any questions, or require any advice with respect to Family Law issues, please do not hesitate to contact a member of our team who will always provide a listening ear and assist you with your enquiry wherever we can.
If you are thinking about separating, or have already separated and are not sure where you stand, our divorce law team at Jackson Lees are more than happy to help.
If you would like to talk to one of our specialist family law advisors, request a call back or send us a message today.