Divorce is rarely easy – emotionally or logistically. But if you’re ready to move on, you’re probably wondering: is there any way to speed things up? While the UK divorce process includes mandatory timeframes, there are several practical ways to avoid delays and make things as efficient as possible.
In this article, we’ll walk you through five proven ways to get a quicker divorce in the UK, from filing accurately to resolving financial matters early – along with how to get a free 30-minute consultation with a solicitor who can help fast-track your next steps.
1. Apply under the no-fault divorce law
Since April 2022, divorcing couples in England and Wales can apply for divorce without having to assign blame. This no-fault divorce system was introduced under the Divorce, Dissolution and Separation Act 2020 and has significantly simplified the process.
By removing the need to prove “unreasonable behaviour” or years of separation, couples can now:
- File for divorce jointly or as a sole applicant
- Avoid disputes about who is to blame
- Focus on practical decisions about finances and children
No-fault divorce reduces delays caused by arguments and contested petitions, making it the fastest legal route to divorce in the UK today.
However, it still includes a minimum 20-week reflection period between the application and the Conditional Order – and a further 6 weeks and 1 day before the Final Order can be applied for. So, while you can’t skip these statutory stages, you can prepare during this time to avoid any additional setbacks.
2. Ensure the application is accurate and complete
One of the most common reasons for delays is incomplete or incorrect paperwork. To avoid back-and-forth with the court:
- Double-check names, spellings and dates
- Ensure addresses and contact details are up to date
- Submit all required documentation
- Pay the court fee promptly (currently £593 for divorce applications)
Using a divorce solicitor can greatly reduce the risk of administrative errors. They’ll make sure your application meets all legal requirements and is processed as smoothly as possible.
If your spouse is uncooperative or hard to contact, your solicitor can also help arrange service by court bailiff or process server to keep things moving.
3. Switch to a sole application if necessary
If you originally applied for divorce jointly but your spouse is now being uncooperative, you can switch to a sole application. This allows you to continue the divorce independently, rather than getting stuck waiting for their response.
This is particularly useful if:
- Your spouse ignores emails or letters
- They try to delay things out of spite
- Communication has broken down
Your solicitor can submit a Form D11 to request this change and explain your reasons. It’s a straightforward way to regain control of the timeline.
4. Resolve financial matters early
Although the divorce itself can go ahead without finalising financial arrangements, it’s a smart move to deal with both together.
Delaying your Consent Order (the legal document that formalises your financial settlement) can cause complications later – especially if one party makes new claims after the Final Order is granted.
To avoid this:
- Start discussing finances early – property, pensions, debts and savings
- Try to reach agreement on key points during the reflection period
- Use mediation to resolve disputes if needed
- Ask your solicitor to draft the Consent Order ready for submission as soon as the Conditional Order is issued
Getting your financial settlement prepared during the 20-week window can significantly speed up the overall divorce process.
5. Work with a specialist divorce solicitor
If you want your divorce to progress quickly and efficiently, working with an experienced solicitor is one of the best investments you can make. They’ll:
- Guide you through the timeline
- Help you avoid common pitfalls and legal jargon
- Draft and file documents on your behalf
- Keep things professional, even if emotions run high
At Osbourne Pinner, we’ve helped hundreds of clients secure fast, stress-free divorces through both fixed fee and hourly rate options – always with an emphasis on clarity, compassion and efficiency.
What you can’t speed up
Even with the best preparation, certain parts of the process are fixed by law:
- The 20-week reflection period
- The 6-week and 1 day cooling-off period between Conditional and Final Order
These are designed to give couples time to reflect, reconsider or resolve practical matters before finalising the divorce. But that doesn’t mean you can’t use this time productively. Sorting out finances, child arrangements and paperwork during this window is key to avoiding delays later.
Need a faster divorce? We can help!
If you’re ready to move forward and want to avoid unnecessary delays, we’re here to support you. Our team will guide you through the process from start to finish, help you file accurately and ensure that your divorce is resolved as quickly and smoothly as possible.
Book your free 30-minute consultation with one of our experienced divorce solicitors today. You can get in touch using the form below, call us on 0203 983 5080 or email [email protected]. We’re happy to speak via video call or meet you in person at one of our offices in London (Harrow, Canary Wharf or Piccadilly Circus) or Manchester City Centre.
