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 can commence the proceedings and ensure you’re made aware of all developments 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 breakdown of your marriage
• How long you’ve been separated from your partner (if living apart)
• Marriage certificate (if you have it).

To be granted a divorce, the marriage has to have irretrievably broken down. It no longer has to be evidenced by a period of separation or unreasonable behaviour.

The divorce process

To commence divorce proceedings, the first step is usually for us to notify your spouse that you believe your marriage has irretrievably broken down and that you will be proceeding with a divorce application. The application can be done individually or jointly with your spouse.

Once the court issues the application, 20 weeks must lapse before you can apply for the ‘conditional order’ (previously known as the decree nisi) which is the first stage in the divorce. It is also from that stage onwards, when the court is able to make a final financial order. You can apply for the ‘final order’ (previously known as the decree absolute) six weeks after the conditional order. The final order is the order which dissolves the marriage and thus brings your marriage to an end.

Sometimes the final order should be deferred until a financial settlement has been reached and ordered by the court, but we would discuss the timing of the final order 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.