Unacceptable delays will continue without urgent…
Investment is needed across the crisis-hit justice system or unacceptable delays will continue, the Law Society has warned.
This briefing outlines our views on the Divorce, Dissolution and Separation Bill ahead of committee stage in the House of Commons on 17 June.
The bill, which had its first reading in the House of Commons on 25 March and its second reading on 8 June, introduces a system of no-fault divorce.
The bill will:
We welcome and support the government's introduction of 'no fault' divorce in this bill. We're also supportive of joint petitions and the principle of divorce based on the statement of irretrievable breakdown of marriage coupled with the 26-week notice period.
Our briefing outlines several clarifications that could be made to strengthen the bill and make sure that it is clear, fair and accessible.
In relation to the Bill we have one key area for improvement, that the 26-week period of notice should begin from the date of service, for example when the respondent has formal receipt of notice or can be taken to have receipt of notice.