Can my spouse stop a no-fault divorce?

Not on the basis that they disagree. Disputes are limited to matters such as jurisdiction, the validity of the marriage, or whether it has already legally ended.

Why is there a 20-week wait?

Parliament built in a reflection period so couples have time to consider whether to continue and to sort out finances and children arrangements.

What does CalmSplit cost?

£159 per person as a one-off payment. The HMCTS divorce court fee of £628 is paid separately to the court, and you may be able to apply for Help with Fees.

Is a divorce prepared online legally valid?

Yes. The divorce is granted by HMCTS whether the application is prepared online or on paper. CalmSplit helps you prepare and manage the paperwork; the court issues the orders.

No fault divorce online

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

Since April 2022 you no longer give a reason for your divorce. You simply confirm that the marriage has broken down irretrievably, and your spouse cannot contest that statement.

CalmSplit prepares your no-fault divorce application online from a short set of questions, on your own or jointly with your spouse.

No need to allege adultery or unreasonable behaviour
Apply on your own or jointly with your spouse
Your spouse cannot defend the divorce because they disagree
£159 one-off per person, court fee paid separately

CalmSplit fee

£159one-off, per person

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

Check suitability

No blame, no reasons to write. £159 one-off when you continue.

See how it works

What changed under the no-fault law

One statement of irretrievable breakdown replaces the five old facts
Blame has been removed, so no conduct allegations are needed
Couples can apply jointly for the first time
A minimum 20-week reflection period was introduced before the conditional order
The old terms decree nisi and decree absolute are now conditional order and final order

The timeline

Day 0: application issued by HMCTS
Week 20: earliest point to apply for the conditional order
6 weeks and 1 day after the conditional order: apply for the final order
Total minimum: 26 weeks, longer if finances are still being resolved

Do not forget the finances

The final order ends the marriage but does not end financial claims between you. Unless a court seals a financial order, your ex could bring a claim years later. Most people applying amicably should also consider a consent order or a clean break order.

Frequently asked questions

No. You confirm the marriage has broken down irretrievably and that is all the court requires.

Related CalmSplit pages

Amicable divorceKeep it simple, organised and calm.When you both agreeThe most straightforward route.Financial consent orderMake your financial agreement binding.

Check suitability

No blame, no reasons to write. £159 one-off when you continue.

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