A divorce is the process of dissolving a marriage.   A dissolution is dissolving a civil partnership (same sex marriage).

The person starting the divorce is called the Petitioner and the spouse or partner is referred to as the Respondent.

The Petitioner must prove that the marriage has irretrievably broken down, ie there is no hope of reconciliation.  The Petitioner must show the irretrievable breakdown by one of five ways.  They are

 The Respondent has committed adultery and you cannot tolerate to live with him. (This option is not avaibable to civil partners seeking a dissolution)
The Respondent’s behaviour is so unreasonable you cannot be reasonably expected to live with him.
The Respondent has deserted you.
You have lived apart for 2 years and the Respondent consents to the divorce
You have lived apart for 5 years.

The Petitioner or we as your solicitor will complete the divorce petition setting out the reason for the divorce.  If there are children of the family a Statement