Ending a Civil Partnership | Solicitors in Llandudno & Conwy

What is dissolution?

A civil partnership is ended by a court order called a dissolution order. The process is very similar to divorce, and the same rules about money, property and children apply. A civil partnership can be between two people of the same sex, or, since December 2019, of opposite sexes.

When can you apply?

You cannot apply to end a civil partnership in the first year. After that, the only ground is that the partnership has broken down irretrievably. Since 6 April 2022 you do not have to blame your partner or prove any particular behaviour. You make a statement that the partnership has broken down, and the court accepts that as enough.

You can apply on your own, or you can make a joint application with your civil partner.

The process, step by step

The application. One of you applies, or you apply together, usually online. The court fee is £628 and covers the whole process.
A 20-week reflection period. At least 20 weeks must pass between the application being issued and your applying for the conditional order. It is time to reflect and to agree matters such as money and children.
The conditional order. This confirms the court sees no reason why the partnership cannot be ended. You are still civil partners.
The final order. You can apply for this six weeks after the conditional order. It legally ends the partnership.

The whole process normally takes at least six months. It can take longer if you do not agree or if there are delays at the court.

Money, property and pensions

Ending the civil partnership does not by itself settle your finances. The court has the same powers as on divorce to deal with the home, savings, businesses, pensions and maintenance, but you need a financial order for the arrangements to be final, even if you agree. Without one, a former partner can still make a claim later. Please read our guide to financial settlements.

Children

If you have children, the court's priority is their welfare. Most parents agree arrangements themselves, and we can help you to do so. See our guide to arrangements for children.

How we can help

We can advise on whether and when to apply, make or respond to an application, negotiate a financial settlement and have it made binding by the court. If you are a member of a couple who want to separate without ending the civil partnership, we can also advise on a separation agreement. Our family team is based in Llandudno Junction and acts for clients across Llandudno, Conwy, Colwyn Bay and North Wales.

Frequently asked questions

How long does it take to end a civil partnership?

Normally at least six months. There is a minimum of 20 weeks between the application and the conditional order, and a further six weeks before the final order can be applied for.

How much does it cost to end a civil partnership?

The court fee is currently £628 and covers the whole process. This is separate from legal fees, and from the cost of any financial order. You may be able to get help with the fee if you are on a low income.

Can I end a civil partnership in the first year?

No. You must have been in the civil partnership for at least a year before you can apply for a dissolution order.

Do we have to agree to end the partnership?

No. Your civil partner cannot stop the dissolution by refusing to agree, but they can contest it in limited circumstances.

Is ending a civil partnership the same as divorce?

The process and your rights over money and children are very similar. The legal terms differ. A civil partnership is dissolved rather than divorced.

Useful links

GOV.UK: End a civil partnership — official guidance and online application
Resolution — family justice professionals committed to a constructive approach
GOV.UK: Money and property when you divorce or separate — official guidance

More helpful sites are collected on our useful links page. We are not responsible for the content of other websites. This page gives general information, not legal advice, and is correct as at October 2026.