Family help and advice

How to respond to a divorce petition

Being served with divorce papers can be a shock – even if you were expecting it. The divorce petition will mark the beginning of the divorce, and it’s up to you to take the next step. Ignoring the petition won’t make it go away, and the sooner you decide on a course of action, whether the split is amicable or not, the easier it will be.

Breakup advice Divorce

Divorce without consent: how to get divorced when your spouse won't sign the divorce papers

Applying for a divorce can be a difficult decision to make, especially if you’re not sure your partner will sign your petition. Crucially though, you don't need your partner’s consent to get a divorce. Although it may be a long process if your partner doesn’t comply, they won't be able to stop you indefinitely.

Breakup advice Divorce

How much child maintenance should I pay?

Child maintenance payments can be arranged with your ex-partner or calculated by the Child Maintenance Service if you can't agree. 

Children advice Divorce

Grounds for divorce: What you need to know

If your marriage has broken down, there are five legal grounds that you can use to file for divorce.

Breakup advice Divorce

8 common examples of unreasonable behaviour in a divorce

‘Unreasonable behaviour’ in a divorce can take many forms. Here’s a look at some common examples.

Divorce

Divorce – Frequently Asked Questions

Getting divorced is one of the biggest decisions many of us will ever make – it’s natural to have lots of questions. Here are our most frequently asked questions about getting divorced.

Breakup advice Divorce

Your guide to gender recognition and the law

If you’re transgender, at some point during or after transition, you’ll likely want legal recognition of your acquired gender.

We’ll guide you through what gender recognition is, how the law affects you, and how to find legal assistance when changing genders.
 

Gender recognition advice

How to make a parenting plan

Making a parenting plan while getting divorced can reduce disruption to your child’s life. Learn how to make an effective parenting plan with these five steps.
 

Children advice Divorce

How to make a cohabitation agreement

The law doesn’t meaningfully recognise relationships outside of marriage or civil partnerships. But you can legally protect your cohabiting relationship by making a cohabitation agreement.

Relationship advice

Cohabitation: what are your rights?

Unmarried couples do not have the same rights as married couples. But what rights do you have?

Relationship advice