Historical Dates

• Before 1857 → Divorce was rare, because it was expensive and required a private act of Parliament
• 1969: Divorce Reform Act → The idea of a matrimonial offence or ‘guilty party’ was abolished. This made ‘irretrievable breakdown’ of marriage the sole ground for divorce, established by proving unreasonable behaviour, adultery, desertion or separation either with or without consent. Divorce was available after two years’ agreed separation or five years if only one spouse wants divorce
• 1949: Legal Aid and Advice Act → Gave financial assistance to the less well off to help with divorce costs
• 2007: Appeal Court Ruling → In divorce settlements, the principle of equality applies, so the starting point is a 50-50 split of all assets, including salaries and pension rights