Civil partnership dissolution

Our family solicitors have a wealth of experience in dealing with all aspects of separation and civil partnership dissolution. We offer pragmatic, confidential and sensible advice and support throughout the separation process and are experts in attaining the best solution for you. 

Dissolution vs Divorce, what are the differences?

A divorce is the legal dissolution of a marriage, and it must follow certain procedures in order to be successful. Dissolution is the civil partnership term for divorce, and it has the same process. If the paperwork is incorrect, you might not be able to get a divorce or dissolution. Even worse, you can be forced to cover any expenses incurred by your future ex. 

Our experts can advise you as to the financial matters arising from your civil partnership dissolution. We can guide you through the division of matrimonial assets, complex financial issues and pension sharing. Our team are also experienced in advising upon matters of an international nature, where assets are out of the jurisdiction or offshore. 

When may a dissolution application be made?

Within the first year of a civil partnership, you cannot file for divorce or dissolve your civil partnership. You can only dissolve a marriage or civil partnership within that year by having it declared null and void. There are just a few grounds on which you can apply for this, and it can have a significant impact because it makes the marriage or partnership irrelevant.

What are the grounds for dissolving a civil partnership?

There is only one ground for dissolution – if both parties agree, they can file a joint application for dissolution.  Most couples will need to wait around 6 months for their dissolution to be finalised. The idea behind this is to ensure both parties have thoroughly considered and understood the meaning behind their dissolution and to determine whether they do wish to separate.

Couples must still come to separate agreements during this period for:

• Division of finances 
• Agree to maintenance payments (if necessary) 
• Child residence/contact arrangements 
• Agree on an ongoing parenting plan

Nowadays, most divorces and dissolutions are handled by consent. By doing this, both parties are confirming that their marriage or romantic relationship is over and accepting that it is. Unfortunately, there are still situations where an awkward ex is out to frustrate the other person and, as such the process, in any way they can!

How does a civil partnership end?

If you’ve been in a civil partnership for more than a year, you can file a petition to dissolve it. To do this, you must make a court application. You can obtain a formal separation if you don’t wish to dissolve your civil relationship. During the first year of your civil relationship, you may file for separation.

Arrangements for children, money and property…

If you have children who are also impacted by the breakdown of the relationship, our family team can advise you as to the issues affecting children, avoiding conflict which may have an impact upon the children.

Our family law experts have the depth of knowledge to advise you throughout your personal circumstances. 

If you need advice regarding the dissolution of civil partnerships or any other Family Law matter, then please contact 01978 291000 or 01244 312166 for more information or to arrange an initial free chat with one of our solicitors. Alternatively, please email: [email protected]