Ministers announced yesterday that the Divorce, Dissolution and Separation Act 2020 will come into force on 6th April 2022.
The bill allows couples to divorce or dissolve their civil partnership without assigning blame, a process that is commonly referred to as 'no fault divorce'.
What is no fault divorce?
My colleague Louisa Knight explained what the bill will mean for separating couples in her article written when the bill was announced, which you can read here.
When will no fault divorce become law?
No fault divorce will become law on 6th April 2022. The date is later than intended in order to allow time for changes to IT systems for online divorce.
The previous target date for implementation, discussed in my colleague Simon's article, was autumn 2021. This new date of April 6th 2022 is a matter of parliamentary record.
Nigel Shepherd, the former Chair of Resolution, said:
“Whilst any delay is disappointing, we do now have certainty over the introduction of this important reform, and will be able to advise clients accordingly.
“Our members’ experience of using online forms and processes has not been universally positive, and so it is essential that the IT is fit for purpose in order to ensure the new divorce process works the way it is intended. The delay will also allow practitioners to become acquainted with the new rules in good time before the Act comes into force."
No fault divorce: A family solicitor's view
Simon Immins, Partner in Frettens' family law team, on the confirmation of the no fault divorce date:
“I am delighted there is a set date. This welcome news will hopefully mean a much more amicable process for all parties involved in the future, especially for families where children are concerned.
Where possible, we aim to settle divorces and separations amicably. Where blame has to be assigned, this can often get in the way of that, leading to an acrimonious process that does little good for those involved, especially the children."
No fault divorce solicitors - Free initial appointment
All our solicitors are members of resolution and are happy to discuss any issues the above raises for you. We offer a free initial appointment for all new clients, either at one of our bright, modern offices, or over the phone.
Contact us if you would like a free initial appointment with a member of our Family Team at our Christchurch or Ringwood offices, with no obligation or charge. Call on 01202 499255 or fill out the form on this page.
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