A Consent Order is a court order that records the financial agreement between divorcing spouses. Once it's sealed by a judge, it's legally binding - and, crucially, it dismisses future claims each of you might otherwise bring against the other.
Why it matters
Without a Consent Order, a divorce Final Order does not stop your ex from making a financial claim against you - even years or decades later. The 1995 case of Wyatt v Vince (where an ex-wife made a successful claim 18 years after separation) is the standard cautionary tale.
What it typically covers
- Division of savings and investments
- Sale or transfer of the family home
- Pension sharing or offsetting
- Spousal maintenance (or a clean break)
- Child maintenance (usually referenced, not set)
When it can be lodged
You can only submit a Consent Order after the Conditional Order has been granted. Most couples negotiate the terms during the 20-week wait so the paperwork is ready to file the moment the Conditional Order comes through.
This article is general information about the law of England and Wales, not legal advice. For advice on your situation, speak to a solicitor.