What to Expect During Divorce Proceedings in London Courts

Divorce can be complicated, but knowing what happens at each stage makes it easier to plan and feel in control. At Gilson Gray, our experienced divorce solicitors in London guide clients through the divorce process in the London courts, helping you understand what’s going on and making sure you feel supported. This is your guide for applications, financial settlements, child arrangements, hearings, and mediation and more.

Initiating the Divorce

To apply for a divorce in England and Wales, you must have been married for at least one year. The Divorce, Dissolution and Separation Act 2020 introduced the concept of no-fault divorce, allowing couples to end their marriage without assigning blame. There are two main application types:

•       Sole Application – One spouse applies for the divorce
•       Joint Application – Both spouses apply together, which can be more amicable and may expedite the process

Application Process

Applications can be submitted online via the GOV.UK website or through a solicitor. The court charges a £612 fee for filing a divorce application. If you’re on a low income or benefits, you might be eligible for a fee exemption, reduction or Help with Fees scheme.

Conditional Order: The 20-Week Reflection Period

After your application is issued, there is a mandatory 20-week reflection period before applying for the Conditional Order. That might feel like a long wait, but it serves a purpose. This period allows both parties to reconsider the decision, to gather your thoughts, organise finances, and think about arrangements for your children. During this time, you might:

•       Attend mediation to sort out disagreements.
•       Gather documents to prepare fair financial settlements.
•       Discuss parenting arrangements, like where children will live and how often they’ll see each parent.

Conditional and Final Orders

Once the reflection period ends, you can apply for a Conditional Order. Think of it as the court saying: “We see no reason you can’t get divorced.” This order does not legally end your marriage.

The final step is applying for the Final Order, which officially ends the marriage. This can only happen six weeks and one day after the Conditional Order. Most people wait until finances and child arrangements are sorted to avoid complications.

Our divorce solicitors in London guide clients through these applications carefully, so deadlines are met and nothing falls through the cracks.

Sorting Finances

Money is often a huge source of worry. What will happen to the house? The savings? Pensions? The court can decide if an agreement can’t be reached, but it’s usually better to agree outside the courtroom. Key points you’ll need to consider:

•       Assets – property, savings, and investments
•       Income – current earnings and future needs
•       Pensions – sharing rights fairly
•       Debts – who is responsible for what

Prioritise the Well-being of Children With Child Arrangements

When children are involved, their welfare is the most important thing. Parents are encouraged to agree onchild arrangements concerning where the children will live and how much time they will spend with each parent. This step looks different depending on:

•       If You Agree – If both parties can agree on child arrangements, you can apply for a consent order to make the agreement legally binding. This process does not usually require a court hearing.
•       If You Cannot Agree – If an agreement cannot be reached, you may need to apply for a court order. In most cases, you must attend a Mediation Information and Assessment Meeting (MIAM) before applying to court.

Mediation: A Better Way to Resolve Disputes

Mediation is often overlooked, but it can save time, money, and emotional energy. An independent mediator helps you and your spouse work through disagreements around children and finances. Many clients find that mediation leads to fairer, more practical outcomes than a courtroom battle.

The Family Mediation Voucher Scheme even provides up to £500 for eligible couples with children to help cover costs and is extended until March 2026.

Why You Should Hire a Divorce Solicitor

Filing for divorce yourself might seem straightforward at first, after all, applications can be submitted online, but the reality is often more complex. Divorce isn’t just paperwork. It’s your life, your finances, your home, and, if you have children, their stability too. Even small mistakes or overlooked details can create delays, cost you money, or impact the outcome of important arrangements. Here’s whyhiring a solicitor makes a real difference:

Protecting Your Finances

Dividing property, pensions, savings, and debts is rarely straightforward. Many people underestimate how complex it is. Our divorce solicitors in London ensure financial settlements are fair, legally binding, and structured so you’re not left vulnerable later. We can also identify options you might not even know exist, like spousal maintenance, tax considerations, or how to safeguard inheritances.

Children Come First

If you have children, every decision feels heavier. Our solicitors help you put your wellbeing at the heart of arrangements while ensuring your rights as a parent are protected. They prepare you for potential court involvement, help draft parenting plans, and support you in mediation sessions, so your children feel the least disruption possible.

Reduce Stress and Conflict

Divorce is emotional, and conflict can make it even harder. Solicitors act as a buffer, negotiating on your behalf and keeping communications professional. They reduce the risk of confrontation and help prevent disagreements from escalating.

Expertise in Mediation and Court Hearings

Even if you try mediation or informal agreements, you still need professional advice. Divorce lawyers in London ensure any mediated settlement is fair. And, if disputes do go to court, having a solicitor who is familiar with the London family court divorce process can make a significant difference in the outcome.

Contact Us at Gilson Gray

Divorce is never easy, but having a clear path forward can make a huge difference. If you’re ready to take the next step,contact Gilson Gray to speak with one of our experienced divorce solicitors in London. We’ll help you navigate the divorce proceedings in London with confidence.