Divorce Solicitors Stockport & Manchester

Divorce is the legal process that brings an end to a marriage that has broken down. For many people, divorce is their only contact with the courts. At Gorvins Solicitors we recognise this and try not to use legal jargon in our dealings with you.

We explain what the divorce process will entail so you can make an informed decision. If you wish to go ahead, we’ll commence the proceedings and ensure you’re made aware of all developments and updates along the way.

We understand divorce can involve high emotions, and our team of family law solicitors are sensitive to your needs during this difficult time. We’ll work with you to resolve your dispute with compassion and efficiency.  Call us on 0161 930 5151, e-mail familyteam@gorvins.com or complete our online form for advice about divorce, relationship breakdown or other family matters.

Gorvins Approach to Divorce

Before we can commence divorce proceedings, we’ll need to build a thorough picture of your circumstances. We’ll usually ask for the following information:

• The reasons for the divorce
• How long you’ve been separated from your partner (if living apart)
• Marriage certificate (if you have it)
• When you can legally file for divorce

What are the grounds for divorce?

To be granted a divorce, the marriage has to have irretrievably broken down. This has to be evidenced by one of these facts:

• Your spouse has committed adultery
• You cannot live with your spouse due to their behaviour
• You and your spouse have been separated for at least two years and both agree to a divorce.
• You and your spouse have been separated for at least five years.
• Desertion

We’ll use this information to decide on what grounds the divorce should be and what the next course of action will be. We’ll also provide an estimate of the costs involved and advise you how long the divorce proceedings will be likely to take.

The divorce process

To start off the proceedings, we will send a letter to your spouse to inform them that you are commencing a divorce. The petition will then be sent to the court, setting out the reasons for the divorce. Your spouse generally has to sign an acknowledgement form for the court. You can then apply for the ‘decree nisi’ which is the first stage in the divorce. You can apply for the ‘decree absolute’ six weeks after the decree nisi. The ‘decree absolute’ is the final dissolution of the marriage.

Sometimes decree absolute should be deferred until a financial settlement has been reached, but we would discuss the timing of the decree absolute with you when we come to it.

Read more about the civil partnership dissolution or the divorce process.

How Can Gorvins Help?

If you’re thinking of obtaining a divorce and want to find out more information about how we can help, give us a call at 0161 930 5151, e-mail familyteam@gorvins.com or fill in our online form at the top of this page.