An automatic divorce is a simplified Canadian divorce process that requires no court appearance when specific conditions are met.

Also known as a desk divorce, this streamlined process allows married couples to legally end their marriage without appearing before a judge. The key requirements include:

• Spouses must have lived separately for at least one year
• Both parties must agree to the divorce
• All financial and child-related matters must be settled
• Proper documentation must be filed with the court

While called “automatic,” the process still requires filing legal paperwork and paying court fees. Once approved by a judge, the divorce becomes final after a 31-day appeal period.