P&R calls for changes in divorce law

Saturday 17 August 2019

The law governing how couples divorce, legally separate or annul a marriage could change sooner than expected, if an amendment is passed in the States.

The Policy & Resources Committee has published the proposed changes, which would give the Royal Court more of a say in how assets are divided between a couple after their marriage is ended.

It is hoped this would reduce some of the conflict and challenge that occurs throughout the process.

Pictured: Policy & Resources President Deputy Gavin St Pier.

Although wider work to reform the Marriage Law is underway, P&R has lodged the amendment sooner as it believes small changes like this one will benefit those going through the process at the moment.

The amendment is due to be considered by deputies at next month's meeting and, if approved, will give the Court more power in matrimonial proceedings.

Wider plans to modernise the law have been subject to a public consultation and will be considered by the States later this year. However, those changes will have to go through the relevant legalisation prioritisation and approvals before they come into place, which could take some time.

They could include the removal of 'fault', separation periods  and the ability to defend a divorce.