No-Fault Divorce Solicitors in London
- 25 years of experience with over 1,000 cases handled
- Specialist divorce solicitors in London for simple and complex cases
- Expert advice on divorce proceedings, including finances and children
- Specialists in financial remedy & children’s cases
- Supportive approach that reduces conflict and confusion
- Tailored legal strategies to protect your rights and future wellbeing
- Professional representation in court where required
- Transparent fees with flexible payment plans
- Members of The Law Society
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We do not offer Legal Aid.
We will always get the best possible result for our clients!
We represent you with a proactive & forward-thinking mindset.
Compassionate Support Through the No-Fault Divorce Process
Compassionate Support Through the No-Fault Divorce Process
Navigating the end of a marriage can be emotionally and legally complex, even with the new law for no-fault divorce in the UK. While the process is designed to reduce blame and conflict, separating your lives still requires careful legal guidance. That’s especially true when finances, property or a child’s welfare is involved.
Whether you’re filing a sole divorce application or joint application, a solicitor can help ensure your rights are protected, paperwork is accurate and the transition is handled smoothly. We can translate the sometimes complex divorce language, mediate with the other party if needed and secure a divorce order with minimal fuss.
At Osbourne Pinner Solicitors in London, our experienced no-fault divorce solicitors provide supportive, strategic advice tailored to your circumstances. We minimise stress and secure fair outcomes—whether that means helping you agree on finances, reach parenting agreements or make the legal process more manageable.
For a free 30-minute consultation with our divorce solicitors in London, call 0203 983 5080 or email [email protected]. You can also visit us at our offices in Piccadilly Circus, Harrow and Canary Wharf. Get clear advice, a swift resolution and flexible payment options to make the divorce process easier.
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Understanding Divorce Law in the UK
The introduction of no-fault divorce in April 2022 transformed the way couples separate in England and Wales. Under the previous law, one spouse had to attribute blame, such as adultery, desertion, unreasonable behaviour or several years’ separation. Now, under the Divorce, Dissolution and Separation Act 2020, the process is simpler and more constructive. Either or both parties can file for divorce by stating the marriage has irretrievably broken down, with no need for blame or supporting evidence.
No-fault divorce laws were designed to reduce conflict, making it easier for couples to separate without the emotional strain of assigning fault. It’s particularly beneficial for families with children, allowing separating couples to focus on co-parenting rather than conflict. There’s no longer any need to assign blame, prove fault or find conclusive evidence of a spouse’s behaviour when a marriage has broken down with limited grounds for divorce.
While the new system removes unnecessary barriers, divorce still comes with legal and financial implications. Property, children and finances are handled separately and can still be complex. That’s where expert legal support can make all the difference, whether it’s a joint statement or one person submitting the application.
How to Apply for a Divorce
No-fault divorce in the UK follows a clear legal process. Below, we’ll summarise the steps involved.
- 1. Divorce Application
If a marriage has broken down, a joint application can be made by both spouses or one spouse can apply for a divorce. This is also known as a statement of irretrievable breakdown or a divorce petition.
For a no-fault divorce, the breakdown of the marriage is the sole ground, with no need to highlight that someone has committed adultery, for example.
- 2. Reflection Period
Once the application is submitted and accepted by the court, there is a new minimum period of 20 weeks, designed to give separating couples time to consider their decision and begin making necessary arrangements, such as financial agreements or parenting plans. Some couples decide to remain married during this period, while others continue with the divorce process.
- 3. Conditional Order (Decree Nisi)
After this mandatory period, the divorcing couple may apply for a conditional order. Formerly known as a decree nisi, the conditional order is a statement from the court that the legal requirements for divorce have been met.
- 4. Final Order (Decree Absolute)
Six weeks later, the final step is to apply for the final order. This is also known as the decree absolute, which legally ends the marriage.
- How Long Does It Take to Get a Final Order?
From your divorce petition to the final order, the whole process typically takes a minimum of 26 weeks, provided there are no delays or disputes.
It may sound straightforward but there are critical deadlines and legal forms involved. Mistakes in the application or failure to resolve related issues can lead to complications. For example, there may be disagreements on living arrangements or maintenance payments.
Many divorces take over a year, even with no-fault divorce laws. A solicitor ensures everything is handled properly in line with the new legislation, giving you peace of mind.
The Importance of Good Divorce Lawyers
Even though no-fault divorce law removes the need for blame, it doesn’t eliminate the need for expert legal advice. The process may be simpler than under previous divorce law, but the implications are just as serious – especially when it comes to finances, property and children.
Without legal guidance, you risk making costly mistakes, agreeing to unfair terms or missing important legal protections. A solicitor ensures you understand your rights and helps you secure a settlement that supports your long-term future.
They’ll also ensure all paperwork is filed correctly and on time, preventing unnecessary delays after an irretrievable breakdown of the marriage. Whether you’re going through an amicable split or facing challenges from your spouse, a solicitor offers clarity, strategy and support every step of the way during divorce proceedings.
Financial Agreements and Asset Division
Although divorce legally ends your marriage, it does not automatically resolve financial matters between you and your spouse. A separate agreement is required to divide finances, property and other assets fairly. This can then be made legally binding through a consent order.
Your settlement can include everything from the family home and pensions to savings, investments and shared debts. In some cases, ongoing spousal maintenance may also be necessary. Without proper legal advice, it’s easy to agree to terms that are unbalanced or not enforceable – especially if the other party has expert solicitors on their side.
At Osbourne Pinner, we help you negotiate practical, long-term financial agreements tailored to your unique circumstances.
We always aim for a clean break where possible to protect your future interests and minimise ongoing financial ties.
Whether you reach an agreement amicably or need support in more complex negotiations, our solicitors will ensure your assets are dealt with fairly and securely.
Family Law: Children and Parental Responsibility
When children are involved in a divorce, their welfare must come first. A no-fault divorce does not determine where children will live or how time will be shared between parents – that requires a separate agreement.
These arrangements typically cover where the child will live, how often they’ll see the other parent and how major decisions will be made. Reaching an amicable agreement is always preferable and we can help you put this in writing with a parenting plan or formalise it through a Child Arrangements Order if needed.
Our solicitors understand the emotional sensitivity involved and provide clear, balanced advice to support both parents while prioritising the child’s best interests. If disagreements arise, we’ll represent your position firmly and fairly to help reach a resolution that supports a healthy and stable future for your child.
Joint vs Sole Applications: What to Consider
Under no-fault divorce laws, couples can now choose to apply for divorce either jointly or individually.
A joint application is often the best route when both parties agree the marriage has ended and are willing to work together on the process. It sets a cooperative tone and can help reduce conflict from the outset.
However, in some situations, a sole application may be more appropriate, for example, where communication has broken down or one party is unwilling to engage. Even in sole applications, the respondent still has an opportunity to respond and receive updates on the process, despite any unreasonable behaviour.
Our divorce solicitors can advise on which route is most appropriate for your circumstances and support you in navigating any challenges along the way. Whether the process is amicable or contested, we’ll ensure your rights are protected and the process runs as smoothly and efficiently as possible.
What Osbourne Pinner Can Do for You
Personalised Legal Support
Our experienced no-fault divorce lawyers offer clear, compassionate legal guidance tailored to your unique situation.
Financial Settlements
We assist clients in negotiating fair and practical financial agreements, including assets, property ownership and spousal maintenance.
Child Arrangements
When children are involved, we prioritise their wellbeing while protecting your parental rights.
Clear Costs & Flexible Payments
We offer clear fee structures with no hidden charges and flexible payment options to suit your circumstances.
Error-Free Applications
Our team ensures that your no-fault divorce application is completed accurately and efficiently to avoid delays or legal complications.
Fast, Responsive Service
Communication is essential during a divorce. We aim to respond to all enquiries within 24 hours with appointments in person or via video call.
Schedule Your Complimentary 30-Minute Consultation
Our divorce solicitors provide expert legal advice with a calm, compassionate approach to help you move forward with confidence.
Book your free 30-minute consultation – available in person at our offices in Piccadilly Circus (Central London), Harrow (North London) or Canary Wharf (East London) or via video call – and find out how we can support you through every stage of the no-fault divorce process.
To arrange your consultation, contact us at [email protected], call 0203 983 5080 or use our online form.
- Practical advice tailored to your personal circumstances
- Support with finances and children
- Clear, fixed fee structure with flexible payment options
- Claim your free 30-minute consultation
BOOK A FREE CONSULTATION
We do not offer Legal Aid.
No-Fault Divorce FAQs
It’s advisable to seek legal advice as early as possible, ideally before submitting a no-fault divorce application. While the process may appear straightforward, issues surrounding finances, property and children can quickly become complex. Our experienced family law solicitors provide early guidance to protect your interests and help you make informed decisions in line with no-fault divorce laws.
As of 2025, court fees for a no-fault divorce are £593, plus any legal fees for additional services such as financial settlement agreements. At Osbourne Pinner, we offer fixed fee packages and flexible payment plans so you have complete clarity on costs from the outset.
A no-fault divorce UK typically takes a minimum of 26 weeks from application to the final divorce order. This includes a mandatory 20-week reflection period, followed by a 6-week wait between the conditional and final orders. Complex divorces can take over a year – if one party shows unreasonable behaviour, for example. Whatever the case, our solicitors ensure all steps are completed correctly to prevent unnecessary delays.
Yes. While the divorce process itself is simpler, the legal and financial implications remain significant. Our no-fault divorce lawyers provide essential support with finances, parenting arrangements and legal documentation to secure a smooth, fair outcome.
Absolutely. A no-fault divorce financial settlement must be negotiated separately and ideally formalised through a consent order. We help you divide assets such as property, pensions and savings fairly, ensuring long-term security.
One challenge is the mistaken belief that no-fault divorce means no legal support is needed. In reality, failing to address finances or children properly can lead to serious complications even with the new laws. Our solicitors ensure all aspects are handled thoroughly and correctly in line with new legislation.
Divorce is the permanent ending of a marriage following a relationship breakdown, while dissolution is the end of a civil partnership. On the other hand, separation refers to living apart without ending the marriage or civil partnership.
