To apply for a divorce you will need:
- Your original marriage certificate or a certified copy of the certificate from the Registrar or equivalent local authority in the country you were married. If the marriage certificate is not in English, you will be required to submit an approved/certified translation along with the original marriage certificate.
- A ‘Statement of Arrangements for Children’ form if you have children under the age of 16, or over that age and in full time education or undergoing training for a profession, trade or vocation.
- If you or your spouse have changed your name other than through your marriage, you will be required to submit proof of name change such as a deed poll or statutory declaration.
- The relevant fee for the divorce application.
Your divorce application and Statement of Arrangements for Children should be submitted in triplicate.
What will I need to include in my initial application?
- Whether you intend to apply as a sole applicant or make a joint application with your spouse;
- Your full name, address and contact details;
- Your spouse’s full name, address and contact details;
- The date and place that you were married;
- Whether the court has jurisdiction to deal with the divorce;
- Details of any previous or existing court proceedings relating to the marriage or any children of the family;
- Whether you wish to apply for any further orders, for example if you wish to apply for financial provision. Please note that applications for financial provision for you and any children are dealt with separately from the divorce. You will be required to submit separate applications and pay the relevant fee for the application.
Statement of Arrangements for Children
You must complete this form in full and submit it along with your initial application for divorce.
This form sets out the current and any future arrangements for any children under the age of 16, or over 16 and still at school, college or training for a profession, trade or vocation.
It is always best if you and your spouse can agree arrangements for any children without the need for a court order. It will save time and money as well as providing a more amicable settlement for the children.