How Long Do You Need to Be Married to Get a Divorce?

In England and Wales, you must be married for at least 12 months before you can legally apply for a divorce.  

The No-Fault Divorce System

Since April 2022, the UK introduced a “no-fault” divorce system under the Divorce, Dissolution and Separation Act 2020. This means couples no longer need to assign blame (such as adultery or unreasonable behaviour). Instead, one or both spouses simply confirm that the marriage has irretrievably broken down.

How Long Does the Process Take?

Even after the 12-month mark, divorce is not immediate.

In England and Wales, there is:

• A mandatory 20-week reflection period after the application is submitted
• A further 6-week waiting period between the conditional order and the final order

In practice, the fastest possible divorce takes around seven months, although many cases take longer — particularly where finances, property, or children are involved.

Do I need a solicitor to get a divorce?

The simple answer is no.  You can apply yourself online. 

However, we would always recommend that you consider seeking advice if there may be potential issues such as marriages entered into abroad or in cases where the location of the other spouse is unknown. 

Even where circumstances seem more straightforward, getting expert advice at the start of the process can save issues arising at a later date. See here for more information on this: Beware of cheap, DIY divorces – get professional legal advice instead.