Divorce & Separation

Expert Divorce Solicitors for Divorce, Dissolution & Separation

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Divorce & Separation at Woodstock Legal Services


The end of a marriage or civil partnership is one of the most difficult experiences anyone can go through. Since the introduction of no-fault divorce, the process no longer involves assigning blame, but there are still important legal steps to follow and key decisions to make. Woodstock Legal Services guides clients through divorce and separation across England and Wales.



Our family lawyers advise on no-fault divorce and civil partnership dissolution, sole and joint applications, judicial separation, separation agreements, and cohabiting couples’ rights on separation. We also advise on the financial and children arrangements that often run alongside a divorce.


You’ll work directly with an experienced lawyer who explains each stage in plain English, protects your interests and helps keep the process as calm, clear and straightforward as possible.


The Divorce Process


Under no-fault divorce, you only need to state that the marriage or civil partnership has broken down irretrievably. You can apply on your own or jointly with your spouse, and the application can’t usually be contested except on limited grounds.


Our lawyers prepare and submit your application and deal with the court on your behalf. We guide you through the key stages, from the conditional order to the final order, which legally ends the marriage. We’ll also advise on the timing of the final order, particularly where financial matters, such as pensions, are still being resolved.


Throughout the process, we’ll keep you informed and explain what’s happening next, so you always know where things stand.


Separation Without Divorce


Not every couple who separates is ready to divorce, and some couples were never married. Whatever your situation, it’s important to understand your rights and put clear arrangements in place.


Our family lawyers advise married couples on separation agreements and judicial separation, and help cohabiting couples understand their legal position on separation, including rights relating to the family home. We work closely with our residential property team where property needs to be transferred or sold, giving you joined-up support from one firm.


Whether you’re separating, divorcing or simply exploring your options, we’ll help you make informed decisions and move forward with confidence.

Get in Touch With Our Family Law Team

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Or call us today on 0330 088 5792 or send us an email

Divorce & Separation FAQs

  • How long does a divorce take?

    There is a minimum 20-week period between the start of proceedings and applying for the conditional order. After the conditional order, there’s a further wait of at least six weeks and one day before you can apply for the final order. In practice, most divorces take at least six to seven months, and longer if financial matters need to be resolved first.

  • Do I need to prove my spouse was at fault?

    No. Since no-fault divorce was introduced in April 2022, you no longer need to prove adultery, unreasonable behaviour or a period of separation. You simply confirm that the marriage or civil partnership has broken down irretrievably. You must have been married or in a civil partnership for at least one year before applying.

  • Does a divorce settle our finances?

    No. A divorce ends the marriage, but it doesn’t automatically end financial claims between you and your former spouse. To achieve a clean break, you’ll usually need a financial order approved by the court. Without one, claims can remain open even years after the divorce. We can advise on reaching and formalising a financial settlement.

  • What rights do cohabiting couples have on separation?

    Cohabiting couples don’t have the same legal rights as married couples or civil partners, and there’s no such thing as a “common law marriage” in England and Wales. Your rights will depend largely on property ownership, any agreements you’ve made and whether you have children together. We can explain your position and help you protect your interests.

  • What is a separation agreement?

    A separation agreement is a written record of how a separating couple will deal with finances, property and children. It isn’t automatically legally binding, but a court will usually take it into account if it was entered into fairly, with full disclosure and independent legal advice. We can help you draft or review one.

Why Choose Woodstock Legal Services?

Low Caseloads: Your Matter Gets Time

As consultants, our family solicitors manage their own caseloads and only work for a handful of clients at any one time. During a divorce or separation, that means your case gets the time, care and attention it deserves.

One Lawyer, From Start to Finish

Our consultancy model means you deal directly with your lawyer, not a rotating team. You won’t have to repeat your story to different people. Your lawyer keeps you informed at every stage and is on hand when you need reassurance.

Calm, Constructive Approach

Wherever possible, we encourage negotiation and family mediation to reduce conflict, cost and stress. We keep your children’s wellbeing at the centre of every decision, while robustly protecting your position if matters go to court.