The first year of ‘no-fault’ divorce – what is the practical impact of the new law?

Jemimah Fleet Knowledge Development Lawyer Charles Russell Speechlys LLP

Family Lawyers in England and Wales celebrated the coming into the force of the Divorce Dissolution and Separation Act 2020 on 6 April 2022. Following a lengthy campaign the reform to divorce law in England and Wales was finally introduced (after being delayed on several occasions) meaning that those in England and Wales would be able to apply for a divorce on a ‘no fault’ basis.

In this article we will look at the recent statistics some of the key changes introduced including joint applications the 20 week moratorium and consider the real felt impact of the new law. Has this driven a more conciliatory approach to divorce especially when considering any concurrent financial and children issues? Or is it the lawyers who are more acutely aware of the change and nuances in the new law and procedure rather than those seeking a divorce? Notwithstanding the law change to ‘no fault’- is there always going to be an element of those divorcing...