Reviewed August 2026. This is general information, not legal advice.
Separation agreement
Where spouses can agree all relevant terms, they may record them in a binding separation agreement. It does not dissolve the marriage.
Judicial separation
A court can grant judicial separation and make related financial, property and family orders. The spouses remain legally married.
Divorce
Divorce legally ends the marriage and permits remarriage. The statutory conditions must be satisfied and the court must ensure proper provision.
Choose the route for your circumstances
Timing, urgency, agreement, succession, pensions, tax and a wish to remarry can affect the appropriate route. Obtain advice before deciding.
Related separation and divorce guides
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