How to apply for the conditional order of divorce

A conditional order is the first of two orders that are made in divorce proceedings in England and Wales.

Two divorce orders

You need two divorce orders before you are finally divorced.

The first divorce order is called the conditional order.

The second is called a final order and you can find out more about

Court fees

Court fees are payable when you start a divorce.

There is a separate fee if you have to make another application as part of your divorce.

For example, if you need to apply for deemed service, you will pay an extra fee on top of the original court fee.

A fee is also payable for an order dividing your assets or making a clean break.

Help paying the court fee

If you are on a low income

• you may be eligible to pay a discounted court fee; or
• fully exempt.

Court Fee refunds

If you have paid a court fee within the last 3 months and were eligible at the time for exemption or to pay a discounted fee, you may be able to apply for a refund.

How much is the court fee?

The table below shows the most common court fees in connection with divorce.

You can find out more about fee exemption and apply for help with the court fee here.