Friendly divorce in the UK

Written by CalmSplit Editorial TeamReviewed by Ramani GillLast reviewed 13 August 2026England & Wales

A friendly divorce is simply an undefended no-fault divorce where neither of you is blaming the other. Nothing in the law requires conflict, and most divorces are now dealt with entirely on paper.

CalmSplit turns the paperwork into plain-English questions, prepares your application for HMCTS and keeps both of you informed. £159 per person, one-off.

  • No blame is required or even allowed as a reason
  • No hearings in an undefended divorce
  • Solicitors only where you genuinely want advice
CalmSplit fee
£159one-off, per person

One-off CalmSplit fee. HMCTS court fees are paid separately to the court.

Check suitability

Start free. You do not need to involve your spouse to begin, and you can invite them later where appropriate. £159 one-off when you are ready.

See how it works

What makes a divorce friendly

  • Agreeing the marriage is over before you apply
  • Deciding together whether to apply jointly or as a sole applicant
  • Being open about finances so nothing has to be forced out
  • Keeping conversations about money and children separate from the divorce itself

Joint or sole?

A joint application signals cooperation but relies on both of you completing steps on time. A sole application is often faster and can still be entirely amicable, because there is no allegation to defend.

Where friendly divorces still need care

Ending the marriage does not end financial claims. A consent order or clean break order records what you agreed, so a friendly separation stays settled years later.

Frequently asked questions

No. You can start on your own and, after payment, choose whether to invite your spouse to collaborate. Many people prefer to prepare their answers first.

Related CalmSplit pages

Check suitability

Start free. You do not need to involve your spouse to begin, and you can invite them later where appropriate. £159 one-off when you are ready.

Start free
Start your divorce – £159