Specialists in Civil Partnerships
We are here to offer you a reassuring and experienced guiding hand as you navigate the emotional, legal and practical challenges that come with the Dissolution of a Civil Partnership.
Dissolution of a Civil Partnership
No matter where you are in the process, from considering a split to much further down the line, it’s always worth having a conversation with a solicitor. We are often told by our clients that they wish they had got in touch sooner, so please take advantage of our free inital consultation. We will help you to understand your options, and the complete process of getting divorced so that you feel fully informed. If you decide to go ahead then we’ll be with you every step of the way.
Our No-nonsense Commitment to You
As specialist lawyers, with over 20 years of experience, we are here to help you with your family law needs. If you need help with legal issues relating to children, advice around divorce, help with making a will or dealing with a loved one's estate through probate, we are here to help.
You're in safe hands
We understand that you may be going through a difficult time. We’ll give you one point of contact, an experienced lawyer that you can trust and build a relationship with.
We'll keep you informed
We know it can be stressful waiting for information. We won’t keep you waiting unnecessarily, we will always let you know about progress on your case as soon as we do.
We'll help you to understand
Legal matters can be complex, especially if it's the first time you've had to deal with them. We'll explain everything to you in simple terms and guide you through the process so that you know what's happening.
You are our priority
We don't overload our lawyers with too many clients, we keep our workload manageable so that we make sure we are available to you if you need us. If we are busy when you call, we'll always get back to you as soon as we can.
FREE Initial Consultation
Get in touch
When it comes to legal processes, we know how daunting things can be, that's why we offer a FREE Initial consultation, so you can talk to an expert Family Lawyer and take the right steps from the start.
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Key facts about Dissolution
- You need to be in a civil partnership for at least a year before you can apply to court for a dissolution.
- If you’ve been in a civil partnership for less than one year, we can help you to understand your options and how to protect your position.
- The only “Ground” for dissolution under the No Fault rules in England and Wales is that your civil partnership has broken down irretrievably, you no longer have to cite specific facts as to why your civil partnership has broken down.
- You and your partner can issue a joint application for dissolution if you would prefer, or a single application.
What if I'm not ready for Dissolution?
You may wish to simply separate from your civil partner before deciding on dissolution. You can formalise your separation by way of a Separation Agreement: a legally binding contract that sets out the arrangements for your children and/or finances without involving the courts.
Alternatively, you may wish to apply for a Decree of Judicial Separation or Separation Order, which allows the courts to resolve most but not all finances (this option will not dissolve your civil partnership and you cannot enter into another civil partnership).
Some couples attend counselling sessions to explore if their differences can be resolved and whether reconciliation is possible. Ask us for details of local counsellors.
How long will a Dissolution take?
The dissolution process will take around seven to nine months to complete.
It is a good idea to resolve the financial matters before the dissolution is finalised. This could include property, pensions, income, and other assets. This the dissolution usually takes longer.
Will I need to go to Court?
Most dissolution cases can be resolved without attending court, however, if you are required to attend court your lawyer will guide you through the process and explain your options so that you can decide how best to proceed.
What happens if I am no longer in contact with my spouse?
If you’ve already been separated from your civil partner for some time and no longer know where they live, we can help you make other applications to the court to progress your dissolution.
Why do I need to appoint a lawyer?
Our aim is to help make the ending of civil partnership as smooth as possible. Working in your best interests and towards your desired outcome. Sometimes divorce can be complicated. We will work on your behalf to resolve any issues and make sure that: –
- Queries from the court are swiftly addressed – to avoid delays
- Problems with your civil partner are dealt with swiftly – for example they may not return the dissolution papers to court or you might not be able to find them
- Any other required applications to the court are made in order to progress your dissolution
- Your claims for financial settlement are adequately provided for, within the dissolution petition
- You’re fully advised about reaching a financial settlement – and we’ll make sure that the decision is enforced.
- The dates contained within the dissolution petition do not prejudice your financial claims
- The timing of the application to complete the dissolution (known as the Final Order) is properly considered, taking into account the potential impact of this on financial matters, such as your pension entitlement
- You are fully aware of the cost implications of the dissolution
- Any international issues are properly considered and you are advised accordingly