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, Step-by-Step 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.
Download Your Free Divorce Guide
(England & Wales)
Thinking about divorce can feel overwhelming, especially when you don’t know where to start.
This free First Step Divorce Guide is designed to give you clear, practical information to help you understand your options and take your first steps with confidence.
Inside, you’ll find a simple breakdown of the divorce process, key legal considerations, and what you need to think about regarding finances, children, and next steps. Whether you’re just exploring your options or ready to move forward, this guide will help you feel more informed, prepared, and in control.
👉 Get your Guide here:
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 Steps 1-4 in One Place?
If you would like to work through STEPS 1 to 4 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
Step 5: Try to Reach Agreement –
Complex Financial Arrangements
When finances are more complicated—such as property portfolios, business interests, pensions, or high-value assets—reaching an agreement can feel more challenging. However, many couples are still able to resolve these issues without going to court.
With the right support, including financial disclosure and professional guidance, it’s often possible to work towards a fair and practical outcome together.
This step helps you:
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understand how complex financial matters are approached during divorce
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learn how mediation and other non-court options can support agreement
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prepare for discussions involving assets, income, and long-term financial needs
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know what happens if an agreement cannot be reached
👉 Start here:
Step 6: Try to Reach Agreement –
Child Arrangements After Separation
When parents separate, making arrangements for children can feel emotional and uncertain. Even so, many families are able to agree practical and supportive arrangements without going to court.
With the right support, including clear communication, child-focused planning, and where appropriate mediation, it is often possible to create arrangements that work in the best interests of the child.
This step helps you:
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understand how child arrangements are approached after separation
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learn how mediation and other non-court options can help parents reach agreement
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prepare for discussions about where a child lives, time spent with each parent, and day-to-day decisions
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know what options are available if an agreement cannot be reached
👉 Start here:
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.
FIRST STEP GUIDE provides legal information only and does not provide legal advice. The platform is designed to help individuals understand and navigate complex legal processes through structured guidance and AI-assisted support for life events including Divorce, Probate, Care Home Funding, and Power of Attorney. All content available is for general informational purposes only and use of this site does not constitute or create a solicitor-client relationship. For specific legal advice related to your personal circumstances, we strongly recommend consulting with a qualified legal professional.