To understand what a decree is you must first realize that there are two different types - the decree nisi and the decree absolute. Here is a brief and simple explanation of the two below..

Decree Nisi

To finalise a separation or divorce you will have to apply to the courts for a decree. In divorce proceedings this is completed in two stages, the first being the decree nisi.

In order to get one, however, the partner will have to acknowledge to the court that he or she does not oppose the divorce.If this is the case you will be granted a decree nisi as a sign that your divorce is almost completed.

When the court gives you your Decree Nisi you have to wait 6 weeks and 1 day before you can make your divorce final. This is to allow time for anyone who objects to the divorce to tell the court why they object.

After 6 weeks and 1 day you can apply for the " Decree Absolute". This means your divorce is completed and you are no longer married to your partner.

In judicial separation proceedings you obtain a "Decree of Judicial Separation" instead of the Decree Nisi & Absolute. You are then legally separated but remain married.

Decree Absolute

The final stage of a divorce is called 'the Decree Absolute.' You can apply for the Decree Absolute six weeks and one day after the Decree Nisi. If you don't apply for the Decree Absolute, then your husband or wife as the respondent can apply for it, but only after a further three months have passed.

When you receive the Decree Absolute, you are no longer married and are free to re-marry. The court will only grant the Decree Absolute when the judge agrees that all arrangements for the children are now satisfactory. A judge can make a final financial order before the Decree Absolute is granted, but the order will only come into force after the decree has been made absolute.

You have to apply to the Courts for a decree absolute of course and you do that by making a request and paying the necessary fee. On receipt of these the court normally pronounces the decree absolute within a few days and sends a copy of the decree to both of you or your solicitors.

If you don't apply for the decree nisi to be made absolute within four and a half months of decree nisi your former partner may do so although he/she cannot do so before then. Every settlement agreement or divorce decree must deal with five basic issues.

These issues deal with: 1) alimony, 2) property division, and, if there are children, 3) custody, 4) visitation, and 5) child support. These five issues must be determined by the divorcing couple in order to obtain an uncontested divorce.

>> You can read more about each of these things by clicking on the links, or in the relevant sections of Divorce Answers.