Running divorces under the DDSA – core principles and 2026 updates

The Divorce, Dissolution and Separation Act has brought major changes to divorce law, and many practitioners are still navigating the practical implications. What is the purpose of the 20-week period before applying for a Conditional Order, and how does it work day to day? How do defending and disputing a divorce differ in practice, and when can costs be claimed? Should an application be made solely or jointly, and what is the current approach to service outside the jurisdiction?

With new functionalities continually added to the online portal, this webinar will guide you through the key developments and help you manage modern divorce cases with confidence.

Topics covered include:

• Key principles of the Divorce, Dissolution and Separation Act – what has changed regarding divorce law and procedure as we knew it?
• Joint applications – how do this work and why is this such an important innovation?
• What should you be doing in the 20-week period?
• Issues over service, time periods, and service outside of jurisdiction
• What is the position with costs under the new law?
• What is the difference between a ‘defended’ divorce and a ‘disputed’ divorce under the act?
• Use of nullity and judicial separation – when are these relevant?
• What is the effect of a ‘non-marriage’?
• Use of the HMCTS portal for alternative service applications