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What is Form A?

Your guide to starting a financial application in divorce or separation

What is Form A
Form A is the application used in England and Wales to start financial remedy proceedings during divorce or civil partnership dissolution. It tells the court you need help resolving finances such as property, maintenance, lump sums or pensions. Form A does not decide outcomes. It opens the process and sets a timetable both parties must follow.

When you’ll need it

  • You want the court to make a financial order
  • Negotiations have stalled and agreement is unlikely
  • The other party is not engaging or withholding disclosure
  • You need the court to manage property, maintenance or pensions.
  • You want a formal timetable for Form E disclosure and hearings.

Why this page helps

  • Explains what Form A does and when it is required.
  • Shows which orders you can apply for.
  • Guides how to complete it correctly.
  • Outlines what happens after filing and court expectations.
  • Highlights when to seek expert support for complex finances.

Why Form A matters

Form A is the document that officially tells the court you are asking for help with your financial settlement. Filing it:

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Starts the process and sets a clear court timetable.

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Ensures full disclosure from both sides for fair negotiation.

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Enables binding orders if agreement cannot be reached.

What Form A Includes

MIAM

The financial orders you are applying for

Such as lump sums, property adjustment, spousal maintenance or pension orders.

Information-1

Basic details about both parties

Names, contact information and whether either party has legal representation. 

MIAM

Confirmation of MIAM status

Whether you attended a MIAM or are relying on an exemption. 

Urgent issues

Any urgent financial issues

Immediate concerns about housing, income or financial pressures the court should be aware of. 

Court orders

Information about existing court orders

Details of any previous financial or child-related orders that may affect the case. 

Sttement of truth

Statement of truth

Your signed confirmation that the information provided is accurate.

How to complete Form A

Form A itself is straightforward, but it is important to complete it accurately.

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Before stating gather

  • Your marriage or civil partnership details

  • Your spouse or partner’s details

  • A clear idea of which financial orders may be needed

  • Confirmation of MIAM attendance or exemption

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Completing the form

  • Add your personal and contact details

  • Add the respondent’s details

  • Tick the financial orders you are applying for

  • Confirm your MIAM status

  • Provide a brief summary of urgent issues

  • Sign the Statement of Truth

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Filing the form

  • File it with your local family court or online where available

  • Pay the application fee

  • Keep a copy for your records

  • Once filed, the court will set a clear timetable for the next steps.

 

How to fill in Form E (2)

Free Download: Guide to Form A
and the Court Process

We have created a clear, step by step Form A Guide to help you understand the financial court process that begins once Form A is filed.

Common Challenges with Form A

You may run into difficulties if:

  • You are unsure which orders you need

  • There are pensions or business assets involved

  • One party refuses to engage or disclose information

  • There are urgent financial or housing needs

  • You are unsure whether mediation is required

  • There are overseas or complex assets

In these situations, speaking with a barrister can help clarify what Form A should include and what to prepare for next.

When to get professional help

We can match you directly with an experienced family law barrister who can:

  • Advise whether Form A is the right step

  • Review or complete the form with you

  • Explain which financial orders apply to your situation

  • Prepare you for the First Appointment, FDR and beyond

  • Provide a clear, fixed fee quote for the work

Get a quote
What is the purpose of Form A?

Form A is the application that starts financial remedy proceedings in England and Wales. It notifies the family court you want help resolving finances such as property, maintenance, lump sums and pensions. Filing Form A triggers the court timetable and leads to Form E disclosure, hearings and potential settlement.

Do I need to attend mediation before filing Form A?

Usually yes. A Mediation Information and Assessment Meeting (MIAM) is expected. You can claim an exemption for issues like domestic abuse, urgency or non-engagement. If exempt, explain this on Form A and you can still file.

Does Form A decide my financial outcome?

No. Form A opens the process; it does not decide the settlement. Outcomes follow from Form E financial disclosure, negotiations (often at the FDR) and, if needed, a judge’s decision at a Final Hearing.

Can I apply for more than one financial order on Form A?

Yes. You can request multiple orders — lump sum, property adjustment, spousal maintenance, pension sharing or attachment. The court considers them together to reach a fair financial remedy.

What if my financial situation is urgent?

Flag urgency on Form A if housing, bills or asset dissipation are at risk. The court can prioritise urgent issues, and a barrister can advise on interim applications and the best evidence to include.

What happens after I submit Form A?

The court issues a timetable: First Appointment (FDA) in roughly 12–16 weeks, Form E exchange, questions, and any valuations. Most cases aim to settle at the Financial Dispute Resolution (FDR). If not, the matter proceeds to a Final Hearing.

How long does the process take after filing Form A?

Timings vary, but expect the FDA within 12–16 weeks, then FDR a few months later. Many cases settle at or after the FDR; if not, a Final Hearing can mean a total duration of 9–15 months, longer for complex matters.

Do I need a solicitor or barrister to complete Form A?

Not required, but professional guidance helps where pensions, businesses or complex assets are involved. A barrister can identify suitable orders, complete the form accurately and prepare you for the court stages.