The long awaited and significant amendments to the Divorce Laws in England and Wales came in to force on 6 April 2022 when the Divorce, Dissolution and Separation Act 2020 (also known as the “DDSA”) came into effect.  Previously there has been one ground for divorce- the irretrievable breakdown of the marriage.  If one party wished to start divorce proceedings immediately following separation, they had to rely on their spouse’s adultery, unreasonable behaviour, separation for 2 years with mutual consent or 5 years without. 

At last this outdated position has changed and going forward there will no longer be a requirement to ascribe fault to one party.  ‘This change will enable couples to divorce without the necessity of the Court having to examine the reasons for the breakdown of the marriage’ says Julie Buckingham-Moseley, Matrimonial Solicitor at Thornes Solicitors.  ‘We have felt for a while that the reason for the breakdown of the marriage is a deeply personal matter and this change in the law means couples will now be able to preserve the privacy of their decision.’

At Thornes we recognise that no two cases are the same and the friendly, professional Matrimonial Team works very closely with clients to ensure the right legal support is provided to meet individual needs.  To find out more about how the team at Thornes can help please call 01902 313311.  Face to face, telephone and on-line appointments available.