Yes, recent changes to the law mean that for the first time it is possible for a couple to apply jointly for a divorce. Whilst it is still possible to apply individually, a joint application is likely to be the best option in most situations.
Making a joint decision to apply for a divorce can be seen as a positive step forward when a relationship has broken down. Rather than one person taking the lead and the other perhaps feeling ambushed or shocked, a joint application ensures that both parties are well aware of the divorce from the outset and will feel fully involved and are more likely to engage with the process.
If you can start the divorce process in a (relatively) amicable manner, when you are both emotionally ready to proceed, it is much more likely that you will then be able to deal with resolving your finances and the arrangements for your children in a smoother manner.
When applying jointly for a divorce application, one person will take the lead – Applicant 1, the other will be Applicant 2. If at some point during the process your relationship deteriorates significantly or one person is not engaging with the process, it is possible to switch to an individual divorce application so that progress can be made.
I’ve set out in more detail the process for applying jointly in another blog.
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