CILEx L3 Family Law

Question 1

Under the Matrimonial Causes Act 1973, what is the sole ground for divorce?

Accepted Answer

Irretrievable breakdown of marriage

Answer

The Matrimonial Causes Act 1973 provides that irretrievable breakdown of the marriage is the single ground for divorce.

Question 2

Which Act introduced 'no-fault' divorce in England and Wales?

Accepted Answer

Divorce, Dissolution and Separation Act 2020

Answer

The Divorce, Dissolution and Separation Act 2020 introduced no-fault divorce, removing the requirement to prove conduct or separation periods.

Question 3

What minimum period of separation (with respondent's consent) could support irretrievable breakdown under the MCA 1973 before the 2020 reforms?

Accepted Answer

Two years

Answer

Two years' separation with the respondent's consent was one of the five facts capable of proving irretrievable breakdown under the MCA 1973.

Question 4

Which court has jurisdiction to hear divorce proceedings in England and Wales?

Accepted Answer

Family Court

Answer

The Family Court, established by the Crime and Courts Act 2013, has jurisdiction to hear divorce proceedings in England and Wales.

Question 5

Under the Civil Partnership Act 2004, what is the equivalent of divorce for civil partners?

Accepted Answer

Dissolution

Answer

Civil partnerships are ended by dissolution, the legal equivalent of divorce, under the Civil Partnership Act 2004.

CILEx Level 3 Practice Test