Since 2008 the divorce rate in the UK seems to have stabilised. However there are still approximately 120,000 marriages being dissolved each year.

Under certain circumstances it’s possible to see how the concept of a ‘quickie divorce’ is both appealing and understandable. However, no such thing is provided for within the law. A quickie divorce is simply the term given to a divorce which proceeds quickly – within the prescribed time-frame and does not drag on.

Finalising a divorce (not necessarily the financial settlement) takes varying lengths of time, depending on the individual situation. There are a number of factors to take into account, such as:

• length of the marriage
• children
• whether the grounds for divorce are contested

These will all have an impact on how long it takes for matters to be settled.

If you are hoping for a quick divorce, don’t hesitate to contact Simply.Law. Our member lawyers will be able to advise you on the best course of action. Family law provides a framework for divorce, into which your circumstances will fit. Simply.Law member divorce solicitors will help you to work out how you can achieve the fastest possible Decree Absolute.

A fixed-fee divorce is also sometimes referred to as a quickie divorce. This is where the costs are upfront and clear. Simply.Law member lawyers have in-depth experience of applying the concept. It’s appropriate for couples who have mutually agreed that they want to dissolve their marriage or civil partnership and don’t foresee any disagreement over the terms of the settlement.

The courts are absolutely committed to the concept of the ‘clean break settlement’ and will seek to use this principle whenever possible. If you’re not sure whether you can have a ‘clean break’ then speak to Simply.Law. We can connect you with a number of highly skilled family lawyers who will be able to answer any questions that you have.

But what about the celebrities who are said to have had a ‘quickie divorce’?

It’s common to read in the media about high profile personalities who have had these so-called quickie divorces. And they are divorced quickly – they have quite compelling reasons for doing so. They want to keep their personal life out of the limelight and, more importantly, they want to prevent any negative publicity which could impact on their careers. However, they do not have access to any special legal dispensation.

The primary deciding factor on how swiftly a divorce can be finalised is whether the divorce petition is defended or uncontested. An Acknowledgement of Service form is provided along with the petition which contains a list of questions. The one which carries the most weight is “Do you intend to defend the case?”

Whether you are the petitioner or the respondent, Simply.Law member lawyers can provide you with specialist advice. We can help to get matters resolved quickly and amicably – leaving you free to continue with your new life.

What factors can slow down a divorce?

The more complications there are, the longer it will take to sort everything out and if parties to the divorce do not keep to the court schedule when returning documents etc, this will also slow things down.

Generally speaking, the greater the involvement of the courts, the longer it will take to finalise matters. And then of course the law puts in its own delay; you are obliged to have a six week gap between Decree Nisi and Decree Absolute.

However straightforward you anticipate your divorce being, it’s important to be clear on the facts. Seeking high-quality, accurate legal advice from qualified family law solicitors is a must. Simply.Law member lawyers have all the expertise and skill necessary to ensure that your divorce goes as smoothly as it can.

Contact Simply.Law today so that we can find you an expert member solicitor for fast, accurate advice for your divorce.

A quick divorce is possible, with expert legal practitioners by your side.

Simply.Law may not be able to get you a quickie divorce – but we can certainly make you feel as if you’ve had one.