Start Here:
Step-by-Step Guide to Divorce
If you’re facing divorce or separation, it’s completely normal to feel unsure where to begin.
There are often several things happening at once — legal steps, financial questions, and (if you have children) important decisions about arrangements.
You do not need to have everything worked out right now.
This page will guide you through the process step by step, so you can move forward with greater clarity and confidence.
How to Use This Guide
Think of this as a simple pathway through divorce.
You can follow each step in order, or move directly to the area that feels most relevant to your situation.
Each step links to a detailed guide designed to help you understand your options and take practical next steps.
Step 3: Make Arrangements for Children
If you have children, your focus will naturally be on creating stability and workable day-to-day arrangements.
This step helps you:
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understand how child arrangements work in practice
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create routines that support your child’s wellbeing
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make decisions about where your child lives and time with each parent
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understand what happens if agreement is difficult
👉 Start here:
Step 4: Try to Reach Agreement
Many couples are able to reach agreements without going to court.
Family mediation provides a structured and supportive way to do this.
This step helps you:
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understand what mediation is and how it works
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know whether you need to attend a MIAM
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prepare for mediation sessions
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understand what happens if agreement is not reached
👉 Start here:
Prefer Everything in One Place?
If you would like to work through all of these steps in a clear and structured way, you can access the full set of guides together.
The Divorce Foundation Pack brings everything together in one place, so you can follow the process without needing to search between different sections.
👉 View the Divorce
Foundation Pack
When You May Need More Detailed Guidance
Every situation is different.
While the guides above cover the process for most people, some situations are more complex.
You may benefit from more detailed guidance if:
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your finances involve multiple properties, business interests, or investments
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agreement is difficult or communication has broken down
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you are concerned about court proceedings or disputes
Where relevant, you will be guided to more advanced resources as you move through the process.
Take Your Time
You do not need to make every decision at once.
Many people move through this process step by step — starting with understanding, then gradually making more informed decisions.
If you are unsure where to begin, start with Step 1 and take it from there.
You are not expected to have everything worked out.
This is about taking the next step — not solving everything at once.