Changes To Divorce Laws To 'End The Blame Game'

The Ministry of Justice has today announced changes to divorce laws to "end the blame game"

Currently, couples wishing to start divorce proceedings within two years of their separation must blame each other as the divorce must be based on the adultery or behaviour of one of the parties. Under the new law, couples will be able to divorce on the basis that the marriage has irretrievably broken down and they will be able to apply jointly for a divorce.

As solicitors, we see the negative impact that the current divorce law can have on couples and on their children. By forcing couples to cite blame, this can lead to unnecessary hostility and conflict. It undermines efforts to deal with the breakdown of the marriage amicably and to preserve ongoing parenting relationships.

The current law can also lead to lengthy court battles about the divorce such as the highly publicised case of Tini and Hugh Owens who battled all the way to the Supreme Court. The government plans to remove the ability to contest a divorce, meaning that spouses such as Tini Owens should not find...