Debate over the possibility of bringing in no-fault divorce looks set to build over the coming months, Carter Lemon Camerons’ divorce partner Chris Corney has said.
The idea of a fundamental shake-up of the laws governing separation has been discussed a number of times in the past.
Now potential reforms will once again be the centre of discussions, with a Private Member’s Bill set to be debated in the House of Commons during the new parliamentary session.
Richard Bacon, the backbencher who is leading the campaign, said: “I propose one simple amendment to the law – the option of divorce without blame – where a petitioner who wished to do so, rather than offering the court one of the five facts currently required of adultery, unreasonable behaviour, desertion etc, could instead satisfy a court a marriage had broken down irretrievably with a sixth fact.”
Family law association Resolution has thrown its weight behind the calls for reform, arguing that no-fault divorce could help make proceedings less acrimonious.
Nigel Shepherd, who has become the association’s new chair, made the case for change at the organisation’s annual conference last month.
Addressing delegates, Mr Shepherd said: “We will continue to make the case to Government, supported by charities, the judiciary and the many others who support no fault divorce.”
At Carter Lemon Camerons we understand that the breakdown of a relationship is never easy, and that trying to get to grips with the legal formalities while dealing with complex emotions can be confusing and upsetting. For advice on any stage of the process, please contact Chris.
