1. Conditions for Consensual Divorce
Duration of Marriage: In order to file for consensual divorce, the marriage must have lasted at least 1 year.
Consensus: The spouses must agree on all material and moral consequences of the divorce. These issues include property sharing, alimony, compensation and, if applicable, child custody.
Preparation of Protocol: The issues agreed upon by the spouses must be submitted to the court in a written consensual divorce protocol.
2. Case Process
Application: One or both parties file the divorce case together. The consensual divorce protocol is submitted to the court along with the petition.
Court Date: The court determines a hearing date in a short time (usually within 1-2 months).
Judge Approval: At the hearing, the parties declare that they accept the articles in the protocol. The judge confirms that the parties have requested a divorce of their own free will and also evaluates issues such as the status of the children.
3. Judge’s Decision
Review of the Protocol: The judge examines whether the protocol complies with the law. It pays attention to whether the child’s interests are protected, especially in matters such as child custody and alimony.
Divorce Decision: If everything is in order, the court decides on a consensual divorce. The divorce decision is usually announced at the hearing.
4. Finalization of the Divorce
Finalization of the Decision: After the court decision is notified to the parties, there is a 2-week appeal period. If no appeal is made, the decision becomes final.
Update of the Population Registration: The finalized decision is notified to the population directorate and the marital status is updated.
5. Important Details for 2025
E-Government Application: As of 2025, part of the lawsuit filing process can be done via e-Government. However, it is mandatory for the parties to attend the hearing in person.
Fast Process: When all conditions are met, the consensual divorce process can be completed in 1-3 months.
Consensual divorce offers a fast and inexpensive way. However, it is important to receive support from a lawyer while preparing the protocol in order to prevent loss of rights.
