25th November 2025
Deciding to divorce is never straightforward, and the process can feel daunting without clear information.
At Myers & Co Solicitors, we know how important it is to feel in control. That’s why we make sure you understand the timeline, so the process feels less stressful and you can move forward with confidence.
Sarah Johnson, Solicitor in our Family Law team at Myers & Co, explains the key stages of the divorce process and what to expect at each step, helping you feel supported, informed, and ready to begin the next chapter of your life with confidence.
Under the no-fault divorce system, introduced in April 2022, the law sets a minimum period of 26 weeks (around six months). This includes:
This structure is designed to give couples time to make arrangements for children and finances before the divorce is finalised.
Here’s how the process usually unfolds:
Your divorce application is submitted and accepted by the court.
A mandatory pause before you can apply for the Conditional Order.
After the reflection period, you apply for and receive the Conditional Order.
You must wait at least six weeks before applying for the Final Order.
Your divorce is legally complete.
Although six months is the legal minimum, most divorces take 7–12 months.
Why? Delays often occur due to:
According to the Ministry of Justice, the average time for cases to conclude in 2024 was around 63 weeks.
Several factors can extend the timeline:
The statutory waiting periods cannot be shortened, but you can avoid unnecessary delays by:
Divorce is challenging but knowing what to expect makes it easier. While the law sets a minimum of 26 weeks, real world cases often take longer.
If you’d like clear advice and support throughout, we’re here to help. Our family law specialists provide tailored guidance on divorce, financial settlements, and child arrangements.
