How long does a divorce take?

Although an undefended divorce - when both parties agree on every decision of the legal process - can take as little as four to six months, the answer is….it varies.

According to the Office for National Statistics, the average time for a divorce to reach the final decree absolute stage was 33 weeks in the first half of 2014, but it may not be advisable to finalise the divorce until all the financial issues have been resolved.

Do I need a solicitor?

Although the procedure for an uncontested divorce is straightforward, using a solicitor will ensure all the paperwork is completed correctly thus avoiding problems in the future. It is particularly important to take legal advice in relation to financial matters to ensure that both parties have a fair outcome, which is binding and which is properly documented. The absence of legal advice can cause a financial agreement to be challenged in the future.

Most families reach agreement about arrangements for their children but if this is proving difficult or if there are urgent or specific issues which arise it is important to take legal advice.

For more information, see our Legal Guide - Understanding your divorce proceedings'

• For legal help and advice about divorce, please contact Wards Solicitors' Family Law and Divorce team by phone or by calling into one of our 11 local offices.