If you feel distant, unhappy, or unsure about your future together, the dissolution of civil partnership may be the step that helps you move forward with clarity. Many people reach a point where the relationship no longer feels supportive, the communication is tired, and day-to-day life has become strained. When that happens, it is natural to look for impartial advice, practical next steps, and a clear way out.
This guide explains what dissolution involves, how it differs from divorce, why people choose civil partnerships in the first place, and how to protect your financial and parental position so you can make informed decisions.
At Waely Law, we help clients approach separation with compassion and composure, so every step is taken with confidence.
Estimated reading time: 6 minutes
What a Civil Partnership Is and Why People Choose It
A civil partnership is a legally registered relationship that gives couples many of the same rights and responsibilities as marriage. It is a civil, non-religious process. Once formed, it provides recognition and protection in areas such as inheritance, tax, pensions, next-of-kin status, and financial responsibilities.
Why couples choose a civil partnership
• Legal recognition without the religious or traditional elements of marriage
• An equal framework that feels modern and balanced for both partners
• Practical protections that cohabiting couples do not automatically receive
• Available to both same-sex and opposite-sex couples since 2019
How a civil partnership is formed
• Give notice at your local register office, usually at least 29 days in advance
• Attend a registration appointment or ceremony and sign the schedule with witnesses
• No vows are required, and the wording is secular
• Your relationship is then legally recognised across key areas of life
If your civil partnership once felt like the right step but now feels like a source of stress, it may be time to understand your legal options.
When and Why You Might Seek a Dissolution
You can apply for the dissolution of civil partnership after at least one year of being in the partnership, if it has irretrievably broken down. For many, this follows a period of emotional distance, persistent disagreements, or different life goals.
Common reasons people decide to apply
• Loss of trust or connection, where the relationship no longer feels safe or supportive
• Patterns of unreasonable behaviour, including controlling, neglectful, or disrespectful actions
• Living largely separate lives, emotionally or physically
• A clear desire for independence and legal closure
Even if the separation is amicable, a formal dissolution provides the legal certainty and protection you need. Without it, you remain tied in law, including around finances and future claims.
What Is the Dissolution of a Civil Partnership?
Dissolution is the legal process that ends a civil partnership. It is similar to divorce but uses different terms. England and Wales follow a no-fault approach, which means you do not need to prove blame. The focus is simply that the partnership has irretrievably broken down. You can apply online through the court service, and you can apply jointly or solely. [¹]
A dissolution ends the legal bond. However, it does not automatically resolve financial claims. To protect both parties and draw a clean line under financial matters, most couples secure a Financial Remedy Consent Order alongside the dissolution.
The Dissolution Process – Step by Step
You can complete most steps online. The process typically takes around six months, depending on how quickly each stage is completed and whether there are disputes. [¹]
1) Apply for dissolution
• Apply online as a sole applicant or a joint applicant
• Pay the court fee shown in the service (fee remissions may apply in some circumstances) [¹]
• The other partner is notified and, in most straightforward cases, will not contest
2) Conditional Order
• The court reviews your application and, if satisfied, grants a Conditional Order
• This confirms the legal basis that the partnership has broken down
3) Final Order
• After the mandatory waiting periods, you apply for the Final Order
• Once granted, the civil partnership is legally dissolved and both partners are free to move on
Good to know
• The dissolution process can continue even if there are disagreements about children or finances
• Financial matters are usually resolved in parallel, using a consent order where possible
• If urgent action is needed to protect assets, you may need a Freezing Order. Speak to a solicitor promptly
Financial Rights and Settlements
When a civil partnership ends, both partners remain financially connected until a court order finalises the settlement. Reaching a fair, sensible outcome protects both sides and provides certainty.
What a settlement can include
• Division of property, savings, investments, and business interests
• Pension sharing or attachment orders where appropriate
• Spousal maintenance or a clean break where suitable
• Lump sums or property adjustment orders to achieve fairness
Why a consent order matters
• Without a Financial Remedy Consent Order, financial claims can remain open in the future
• A consent order records what you have agreed and makes it legally binding
• It reduces the risk of later disputes or unexpected claims
Explore these pages for detail:
– Financial Proceedings
– Financial Remedy Consent Orders (Clean Break)
– High Net Worth Divorce
If you have complex assets, business interests, or international elements, speak to us early. Proper disclosure and a structured approach make a significant difference to outcomes.
Child Arrangements and Parental Responsibility
When children are involved, the court’s first concern is their welfare. Parents are encouraged to agree practical, stable arrangements that support the child’s routines and relationships.
Issues to consider
• Where the child will live and how time is shared
• Schooling, health, and significant decisions under Parental Responsibility
• Financial provision for children
Helpful guides:
– Child Arrangements Orders
– Parental Responsibility
If agreement proves difficult, mediation or a court application can help create a clear, workable structure that keeps the child’s needs at the centre.
Common Challenges and How to Avoid Them
• A partner who delays or refuses to engage: clear timelines and professional correspondence help keep matters moving
• Disputes about property, pensions, or businesses: early financial disclosure and expert valuations reduce conflict
• Emotional strain and uncertainty: a steady plan, realistic timescales, and regular updates lower anxiety
• Concerns about children: a child-focused approach and predictable routines help everyone adjust
You do not have to carry this alone. Our team will help you understand options, weigh risks, and make decisions that protect your future.
How Waely Law Can Help
We provide practical advice and calm representation from first conversation to final order. If you are ready to learn about next steps, or you simply want a confidential space to talk through your situation, we are here to help.
Considering legal steps now? Learn about our service and what to expect:
– Dissolution of Civil Partnership Solicitors
FAQs
Can I apply for dissolution online?
Yes. Most applications are made online through the government service. You can apply as a sole applicant or jointly as a couple. The system issues the key documents and keeps you updated through each stage. [¹]
Do I need to give a reason, or blame my partner?
No. England and Wales use a no-fault system. You confirm the partnership has irretrievably broken down. There is no need to give details or evidence of behaviour. [¹]
What happens to our home after dissolution?
It depends on your circumstances. Options include one partner remaining in the property, a transfer of equity, or selling and dividing the proceeds. The outcome is usually recorded in a court order and may be supported by a Property Adjustment Order.
Will I get maintenance, or pay it?
Spousal maintenance may be appropriate in some cases, for a set period or on a joint lives basis, depending on needs and resources. Some couples agree a clean break with no ongoing maintenance. Advice is important to reach a fair position.
What about our pensions and savings?
Pensions can be shared or offset as part of the overall settlement. You will both provide financial disclosure so that decisions are informed. A sealed Consent Order is recommended to make the agreement binding.
Can my partner stop the dissolution?
Contesting is rare under the current rules. The court focuses on whether the partnership has irretrievably broken down. A partner can cause delay by not engaging, but there are procedure steps to move matters forward. [¹]
What if we have children?
You can agree arrangements between you, or use mediation to help. If needed, the court can make Child Arrangements Orders to formalise where the child lives and the time they spend with each parent. The child’s welfare is the first concern.
Do I need a solicitor for a civil partnership dissolution?
You can apply without a solicitor. However, legal advice is strongly recommended for finances, pensions, and property. A solicitor will help you secure a binding Consent Order, which prevents future claims and provides certainty.
How much does dissolution cost in the UK?
There is a court fee for the application, shown on the government service. Legal costs vary depending on complexity and whether agreement is reached early. We can outline likely costs after an initial discussion. [¹]
Clear Next Step
If you feel disillusioned in your partnership and want steady, confidential advice, we can help you plan the safest next step. Contact Waely Law to speak with a family solicitor who will explain your options in plain English and help you protect your future.
Book a confidential consultation today.
Related Articles
References
¹ GOV.UK: End a civil partnership.
² Law Society: Find a family solicitor near you.