Couples going through a divorce may soon have to use mediation rather than take their case to court.
Under new plans—currently being drawn up by the government—they will also be ordered to pay their partners’ costs if they turn down a reasonable settlement.
The decision on mandatory divorce mediation is expected to be announced in a few weeks.
The new rules aim to stop divorcing couples from clogging up the family courts. The government thinks too many couples are making claims as revenge.
Freeing up the courts would enable the courts to deal with the most serious cases.
Only cases which involve domestic violence or involve safeguarding issues will be allowed to progress through court.