Understanding the Legal Grounds When Filing a Divorce in the UK
If a couple decides to end to their marriage, then they need to file an appropriate civil case to dissolve such union. However, the parties need to show valid reasons to prove their cause. In the United Kingdom, there are five lawful justifications that can make a marital bond null and void. Moreover, any of these proofs can be invoked by the husband and/or wife to terminate the partnership.
Here are the legal grounds that partners need to establish before the court.
This reason can be used if it is shown that one of either party had sexual relations with another individual and if the partner no longer wants to stay together in the same roof. However, this legal basis cannot be raised if the offended person continued to live with the accused for more than six months since the former needs to prove that he/she finds it intolerable to cohabit with the offender.
Unreasonable behaviour
When invoking this type of lawful ground, the party must assert that it is impossible to have a peaceful marital relation with the husband or wife, especially that there is “mental or physical cruelty, including violence or abuse, and less obvious things like dominating a partner, not letting the partner leave the house or speak to neighbours and friends or refusing to pay for housekeeping.” – Advice Guide Moreover, the court requires that detailed evidence must be shown to support a claim.
Desertion
This usually happens if the one of a spouse leaves the other against the latter’s will and without any valid reason. The offended individual will then need to show to the tribunal that the couple has no longer been staying together for a certain period.
Living separately
If it is proven in the divorce proceedings that the partners were apart for more than two years, then this situation may be given merit by the court. Also, it is a requirement that both parties must agree in writing to file a divorce.
Five years separation
Even without getting the consent of the other mate, the husband or wife can apply for the termination of the marital relations by using any documentation that will prove that they have indeed lived separately for the said number of years.
To help married people understand the implications and legalities of divorce, it is important that they hire the services of a reliable law firm, like E. Edwards Son & Noice. For more information about its services, browse through this website now.