If it is less than two years between the date of marriage and the date of filing the application, then there is a requirement that you and your ex-partner attend counselling to show that you have considered reconciliation. This counselling is compulsory.
The counsellor will provide you with the Counselling Certificate for Applicants married less than two years (signed by an approved mediation or counselling agency) to show that you have attended counselling or mediation in compliance with this requirement.
If there are special circumstances that make mediation impossible or inappropriate, you need to advise the Court as to same and seek that this requirement be dispensed with.
