Divorcing couples may no longer have to blame one another for the breakdown of their marriage as a Bill that seeks to reduce family conflict proceeds through Parliament.
The campaign to secure no-fault divorce moved another step closer to success as the Divorce, Dissolution and Separation Bill passed its second reading in the House of Lords last month. Divorcing couples will no longer have to blame one another for the breakdown of their marriage as a Bill that seeks to reduce family conflict continues through Parliament.
The Divorce, Dissolution and Separation Bill represents the biggest shake-up of divorce laws in half a century and aims to reduce the impact that allegations of blame can have on a couple and in particular children.
The new law will remove this ‘blame game’ by allowing one spouse - or the couple jointly - to make a statement of irretrievable breakdown. It is hoped this will mean divorcing couples no longer have to blame each other for the breakdown of their marriage. It will also stop one partner contesting a divorce if the other wants one – which in some cases has allowed domestic abusers to exercise further coercive control over their victim.
The Bill was first introduced in June 2019 after a public consultation and is being brought before Parliament again following the General Election.
The proposed changes will encourage a positive start to the new relationship divorcing couples must form as co-parents. Divorce isn’t a decision people tend to take lightly but the introduction of a minimum timeframe will provide an opportunity for couples to reflect and seek vital support such as counselling and mediation.