This is according to the latest figures from the Ministry of Justice, which revealed that a total of 33,566 applications were submitted between April and June 2022. Of these, the majority (33,234) were made just after the new laws came into effect.
The figures showed a 22% increase compared to the same period in 2021. It’s also the highest number of divorce applications recorded in a decade.
Cost of living crisis could slow divorce rise trend
Many divorce solicitors may have been expecting divorce application numbers to rise immediately after the change to the law. Other factors such as the impact of the Covid-19 pandemic and the pressures of lockdown may also have affected the MoJ divorce figures.
But legal experts are also predicting that it’s a trend that won’t last, especially as the cost of living starts to bite.
Family lawyer Joanne Wescott told the Law Society Gazette:
“We are beginning to see couples putting the brakes on their divorces as economic uncertainty and the cost of living crisis stoke fears that divorce is simply unaffordable for them. Whilst financial tensions are a major source of conflict in relationships, splitting into two households will inevitably be more expensive for all concerned, with increased mortgage and rental costs and higher bills. Many fear they have too much to lose and will decide against getting divorced, at least for now.”
What is ‘no fault divorce’ and how has the law changed?
If you’re not up-to-date with the changes to divorce laws in England and Wales, here’s a quick refresher.
New provisions under the Divorce, Dissolution and Separation Act came into effect on 6th April 2022, and marked the most significant change to UK divorce law in recent times. It effectively removed the necessity for divorcing couples to assign blame for the breakdown of their marriage.
Previously, one person would be required to petition the other for divorce, and choose a reason why the relationship had broken down irretrievably. Apart from separation, the available options were unreasonable behaviour, adultery or desertion – all of which have an inherent element blame attached to them.
Under the new rules, couples can apply for divorce simply by stating that the marriage has broken down irretrievably. The changes aim to remove unnecessary acrimony, blame and conflict from the divorce process, so that couples can focus on practical decisions involving children and finances post-separation.
Couples can also now apply jointly for divorce, although the Ministry of Justice figures show that only 2 in 10 applications were made jointly between April and June 2022.
You can find out more about no-fault divorce here.
If you’re facing divorce, it’s essential to get expert legal advice and practical support as you navigate the process. Our experienced Wirral divorce solicitors can help – get in touch with our friendly team to arrange your free consultation. There’s no obligation and no time limit, and we’ll be happy to answer all of your questions.