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The new divorce procedure comes into force on the 6th April 2022. We have been using the same terminology for 50 years and this is how it will change.
|
Current Term |
Updated Term |
Meaning |
|
Petition |
Application |
Physical document or digital form lodged with court to apply for a divorce, end a Civil partnership or get a legal separation. |
|
Petitioner |
Applicant |
The Applicant is the party who starts the divorce proceedings. The other party will continue to be known as the Respondent.
|
|
Decree Nisi |
Conditional Order |
This document confirms that the court agrees that the parties can divorce. This can be applied for after 20 weeks.
|
|
Decree Absolute |
Final Order |
This document ends the marriage. Once received, the parties will be able to re-marry.
|
|
Defended |
Disputed |
The Respondent could defend the divorce if they disputed the fact used. It can no longer be defended and only disputed in very limited circumstances.
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|
Decree of Nullity |
Nullity of marriage order |
This document declares that no valid marriage exists.
|
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Separation order |
Separation decree |
This document confirms that the parties are legally separated.
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For more information please contact our Family Team on 01302 341414.