New laws introducing ‘no fault’ divorces in England and Wales have been given the Royal Assent.

Under the current law blame must be attributed to one party to have a divorce unless you have been separated for at least 2 years by alleging either adultery or unreasonable behaviour. The new law means that, to start divorce proceedings, a spouse only needs to state that their marriage has broken down irretrievably without making any allegations against the other spouse.

The new law will also allow couples to apply jointly for a divorce where the decision to separate is mutual.

It is hoped that the new law will reduce conflict and make the legal process less painful, reduce legal costs and ultimately end ‘the blame game’.

We are delighted with the news and it is hoped that no-fault divorces will start to take place in 2021. We look forward to continuing to help our clients  from our offices in Lancaster and Kirkby Lonsdale through this process.

If you need assistance from one of our specialist family solicitors, then please contact us on 01524 846846 and for more details visit our Family Law website page.

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