Once papers are served the Respondent has 35 days to sign and return the divorce papers. If they do not, then another letter will be sent to them asking them to return the papers. If papers are still not signed and returned to the Court, then the Petitioner’s solicitor can make an application to the Court to dispense with the Respondent’s signature. The Petitioner’s solicitor will make an application to the Court, will attend Court on their behalf and will ask the Court to make an Order Deeming Service Good. If this Order is made the divorce can proceed without the need for the Respondent’s signature.