New day dawns in divorce ending bitter ‘blame game’

11 June 2021 | Written by Jones Myers

By Jones Myers Solicitor, Lilly Grant

News that divorcing couples can obtain a no-fault divorce from 6 April 2022 marks the most dramatic and far-reaching change in divorce laws in 50 years.

No-fault divorce finally ends the bitter ‘blame game’, making it easier for people to manage their separation and work together to avoid lengthy and stressful court disputes.

Under current legislation, to petition for divorce the petitioner must satisfy one of the following five facts to establish that the marriage has irretrievably broken down.

  1. Unreasonable behaviour
  2. Adultery
  3. Two years separation with the consent of the other party;
  4. Five years separation without consent; and
  5. Desertion.

This means that unless couples have lived apart for two or five years, one partner has to take some form of blame, either adultery or unreasonable behaviour.

No fault divorce will provide a less acrimonious divorce process, enabling one or both parties to issue a petition for divorce simply with a statement confirming that the marriage has irretrievably broken down. 

A 20 week period for reflection follows – after which a conditional order is made.  Once a further 6 weeks expires a Final Order can be granted.

While Children and Financial Arrangements will still be resolved separately, it is anticipated that the removal of ‘allegations’ will promote a better atmosphere for discussion and agreement. 

Jones Myers always stresses the importance of putting children’s interests first. We have experienced at first-hand how prolonged divorce proceedings can cause conflict and lingering resentment and have long-term repercussions on their health and education.

Jones Myers, together with Resolution, which champions non-confrontational approaches in family law, has been at the forefront of lobbying MPs locally and at the Palace of Westminster for these major changes. We are understandably delighted with this rewarding outcome.   

Designed to reflect society’s attitudes, the legislation was originally set to come into force in autumn 2021. The delay to 6 April 2022 is to enable the court IT system to be up and running with the new process.

For queries on divorce or any aspect of family law, call us at Leeds on 0113 246 0055, Harrogate on 01423 276104, or York on 01904 202550. Visit www.jonesmyers.co.uk, email info@jonesmyers.co.uk or tweet us @helpwithdivorce

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