Get a divorce: step by step

How to file for divorce if you鈥檙e in England or Wales.

There鈥檚 a different process if you鈥檙e responding to a divorce application (鈥榩etition鈥�) or you鈥檙e in or .

  1. Step 1 Get support and advice

    You can get support or counselling to help you through the divorce process.

  2. Step 2 Check if you can get divorced

    1. Check if you can get a divorce
    2. Get legal advice if you want help with the divorce process

  3. Step 3 Make arrangements for children, money and property

    1. Make arrangements for your children
    2. Divide your money and property
    3. Check if your divorce will affect whether you can live in your current home

  4. Step 4 Apply for a divorce

    1. Apply for a divorce online or by post 拢593
    2. Get help with court fees
    3. Get legal advice
    4. Get help if your husband or wife cannot make decisions for themselves

  5. Step 5 Apply for a 鈥榗onditional order鈥� or 鈥榙ecree nisi鈥�

    1. Apply for a 鈥榗onditional order鈥� or 'decree nisi'

  6. Step 6 Finalise your divorce

    1. Apply for a 鈥榝inal order鈥� or 'decree absolute'

  7. Step 7 Report that your circumstances have changed

    You also have to tell other government organisations that you're getting divorced if: