What's Inside This Guide?
Our Consent Order guide covers:
- What a Consent Order is Making mediation agreements legally binding and enforceable
- MoU vs Consent Order Understanding the crucial difference
- How to apply Step-by-step process for submitting to court
- Costs and timescales What to expect and how long it takes
- What if circumstances change Can you vary a Consent Order later?
Why You Need a Consent Order
At the end of mediation, you'll receive a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) - a summary of what you've agreed. This is NOT legally binding. Either party can change their mind.
A Consent Order is approved by a judge and becomes a court order. Once sealed, it's legally enforceable. If one party breaks it, the other can return to court for enforcement.
- Makes your agreement legally binding
- Prevents either party backing out later
- Provides a clean financial break
- Can be enforced through court if breached
- Protects both parties' interests
How to Apply for a Consent Order
You'll need to complete a D81 form (statement of information for a consent order) and submit it to court with your agreement and a £50 court fee. Most couples use a solicitor to draft the order properly.
The court reviews your agreement to check it's fair. If approved, they'll seal the order and send copies to both parties. This usually takes 4-6 weeks.