Couples will be forced to have mediation to resolve any disputes before resorting to the courts in a shake-up of the divorce system.
Justice minister Jonathan Djanogly said mediation was "a quicker, cheaper and more amicable alternative, particularly where children are concerned".
The move follows a recommendation from the family justice review report that was intended to cut the strain on the system as an increasing number of parents become involved in legal wrangles over children and money.
Under the change, anyone wanting to use the courts will have to undergo a compulsory mediation assessment session first, which could cost some couples up to £140.
The proposals, which come into force from 6 April under a new agreement between judges and the ministry of justice, represent an extension of the system already in place for couples granted legal aid.
