In January 2020 The Divorce, Dissolution and Separation Bill was passed through Parliament which introduced the biggest reforms in Family Law for over 50 years.
On the 6th April 2022 the law changed to enable a spouse to petition for a divorce without having to cast any blame against the other. Until this time, unless a married couple has been separated for two years or more, a spouse had to site “blame” on the part of the other, either by using the fact of unreasonable behaviour or of adultery.
The new law has removed the need for the acrimonious ‘blame game’ by allowing one spouse, or the couple jointly, to make a statement of irretrievable breakdown when divorce proceedings are commenced.
It also prevents one partner contesting a divorce if the other wants one, which in the past has enabled domestic abusers to exert further coercive control and manipulation over their spouse.
The very justified thought plan is this; to begin proceedings in this amicable way shall reduce the detrimental impact that allegations of blame inevitably had upon the couple’s already potentially fraught relationship. We also must not forget the negative impact upon the children of the family when blame is cast from one parent to another, and how avoiding this is imperative.
This highly sought after, and vital positive progression has been of great benefit to divorce proceedings. Simply put, taking away the need to blame the other is nothing but a great step in the right direction. This is a revolutionary development and it is very exciting that the time is finally here to initiate this coveted and necessary change.
If you need more help or advice with divorce matters, please call Jemma on 07534 175310 for advice.
Jemma Wentworth is a family lawyer who offers family law services throughout the UK as a Consultant Legal Executive for Ann McCabe Solicitors.