Documents Needed for a Divorce Application
A plain-English rundown of what's typically needed to file, so you know what to start gathering before you apply.
Every divorce application is a little different, but most people need the same handful of things. Here's what typically comes up, and it's worth reading this as a starting point for a conversation, not a definitive checklist for your specific situation - get in touch and we'll confirm exactly what applies to you.
What you'll typically need
Your marriage certificate
The official certificate from your marriage. If it isn't in English, the court usually needs a certified translation alongside the original.
Evidence of your separation date
Usually a short statement setting out when you separated and how that came about. This is what establishes the required period of separation.
Arrangements for children under 18
Where you and your ex-partner have children under 18, the court needs to see that proper arrangements have been made for their care, welfare and development before it will grant a divorce.
This is a general guide to what's usually needed, not a definitive checklist for your particular circumstances - every situation is a little different. Get in touch and we'll confirm exactly what applies to your application before you start gathering documents.
Ready to get started?
Once you know roughly what you're working with, the next step is having your application properly prepared. See the Divorce Application page for pricing, or the DIY Kit if you'd rather prepare it yourself.