Launching New Online Service for Changes to Divorce Legislation

Changes to Divorce Law: New Online Service Launching on 6 April

On 6 April this year, significant changes to the legislation on divorce will come into force, with the introduction of the Divorce, Dissolution and Separation Act 2020. To accommodate these changes, a new online service will be launched. However, the old service will be unavailable from 31 March 2022 as preparations are made for the transition.

The reforms brought about by the act aim to reduce conflict among divorcing couples by removing the ability to make allegations about the conduct of a spouse and allowing couples to end their marriage jointly. Additionally, a minimum period of 20 weeks between the start of proceedings and application for a conditional order will be introduced, providing couples with time for reflection and cooperation.

Under the new legislation, contesting a divorce will no longer be possible, except on limited grounds such as jurisdiction. This shift is designed to streamline the divorce process and encourage a more amicable approach to ending a marriage.

For those who have already started their divorce application, it is important to note that applications saved on the current digital service must be submitted by 31 March 2022. Alternatively, applicants can wait until the new digital service is launched on 6 April 2022 to proceed with their application.

If you have not yet started your divorce application, it may be advisable to wait until the new services are available from 6 April 2022 to ensure compliance with the updated legislation.

Important dates to remember include the deadline of 31 March 2022 for submitting applications on the current paper or digital systems, as well as the period from 31 March to 5 April 2022 when the digital service will not accept new applications. The new paper and digital services will be available from 6 April 2022 onwards.

For urgent applications that are time-critical, such as those involving jurisdiction or the need for a freezing injunction, legal advice may be necessary. The court will continue to accept urgent applications that need to be considered before 6 April, with a specific email address provided for submissions.

Overall, the changes to divorce law and the launch of a new online service mark a significant shift in the way divorces are handled in the UK. Applicants and legal professionals alike should familiarize themselves with the new legislation and procedures to ensure a smooth transition to the updated system.