Why You Don’t Need a Solicitor to Get a Divorce in the UK
- Dave Barma
- 5 days ago
- 3 min read
Updated: 2 days ago
Many people assume that a solicitor is required to get divorced. This belief often adds unnecessary stress, cost, and delay at an already difficult time. In reality, most divorces in England and Wales can be completed without legal representation, particularly where there are no complex financial disputes.
Understanding how the divorce process works — and when legal advice may or may not be necessary — can help you approach the process with greater confidence and control.
Divorce Is a Legal Process, Not a Courtroom Battle
Since the introduction of no-fault divorce, the legal process for ending a marriage has become more straightforward. Divorce is largely an administrative process that involves submitting forms, following set timelines, and applying for court orders at the appropriate stages.
For the vast majority of people, this means:
There is no need to attend court
There is no requirement to prove fault
The process follows a clear structure
A solicitor is not required to complete these steps.
You Can Apply for Divorce Yourself
In the UK, individuals can apply for divorce online through the government portal. The system is designed to be accessible and is commonly used by people representing themselves.
You can:
Submit a sole or joint application
Track the progress of your case
Apply for the Conditional Order
Apply for the Final Order
As long as the forms are completed accurately and deadlines are followed, the process can be managed without legal representation.
Understanding the Limits of Divorce Proceedings
It is important to understand that divorce proceedings deal with ending the marriage itself. Matters such as finances and child arrangements are separate processes.
This means:
You can complete the divorce without resolving finances immediately
Child arrangements are handled through separate proceedings if required
Understanding this distinction helps prevent unnecessary legal costs at the early stages.
You Are Allowed Support Without Legal Representation
Choosing not to use a solicitor does not mean navigating the process alone. Many people benefit from structured guidance, educational resources, and professional support that helps them understand the process and avoid common mistakes.
Having clarity around what is required — and when — can make the process feel far more manageable.
Practical Support for Navigating Divorce Without a Solicitor
If you are considering divorce and want a clear, step-by-step understanding of the UK divorce process, our Complete UK Divorce Process Guide has been created for people who want to manage the process themselves.
The guide explains each stage of divorce in plain English, outlines what forms are required, and helps you understand what to expect at each point — without legal jargon or unnecessary complexity.
The guide includes screenshots of the online process and step by step guidance on the paper process.
This guide is an educational resource and does not constitute legal advice.
Need to Talk Things Through?
If you are unsure whether managing your divorce yourself is the right option for you, or you would like to talk through your situation, you can book a free 30-minute telephone consultation.
About the Authors of this Blog
Dave Barma and Gemma Bailey are professional McKenzie Friends supporting parents navigating the UK family court system. With extensive experience assisting litigants in person, they provide clear, practical guidance to help parents understand court processes, prepare effectively, and approach proceedings with greater confidence. Their work focuses on education, preparation, and support, helping parents engage with the family court process in an informed and structured way.
Comments