You need a fair financial settlement in divorce – don’t settle for less. Your solicitor’s costs should be an investment for your future, whether they are modest to ensure your Financial Consent Order is correctly drafted, or substantial to obtain what is rightfully yours from an uncooperative spouse.
Matthew Evens wrote in the Daily Post online “How much a divorce can cost in 2022 and what you need to know”
The proceedings can be emotionally charged which in turn can drive up fees
Divorce can be a tricky and at times costly process for couples who no longer want to remain together.
Many people have not been through divorce before, which may be an alien concept that they never imagined they’d have to sadly go through.
It’s often an emotional ordeal and to save time, money, and unneeded stress, it is important to know the facts which could make the proceedings run smoother.
How can I get a divorce?
There are a number of factors you must qualify for first before being allowed to officially commence divorce proceedings. According to GOV.uk they are the following:
- You’ve been married for over a year.
- Your relationship has permanently broken down.
- Your marriage is legally recognised in the UK (including same-sex marriage).
- The UK is your permanent home, or the permanent home of your husband or wife.
How much will a divorce cost
This will most likely be affected by three main things:
- If your divorce is contested or uncontested
- The complexity of your estate and your family arrangements, like if you have children and who has child custody
- Whether you do a DIY divorce, use an online divorce service or get professional legal advice.
According to Help & Advice the average cost for a divorce is around £14,500 plus VAT. This takes into account the legal fees if you choose that route, and the two individuals lifestyle costs.
When should I consider legal help for my divorce?
When the two claimants cannot come to a mutual decision, often due to emotional turbulence, it may be wise to bring in a divorce lawyer or someone similar. This is perhaps the main reason why divorces cost what they do.
To get legal advice from someone with knowledge of family law will cost you hourly or a fixed fee depending on the case.
The price of the legal advice will be a lot lower if the divorce is uncontested and you do not have to go to court. Consider legal advice if any of the following apply:
- Is there a financial imbalance between you and your former partner?
- Have you been financially dependent on your former partner?
- Have you made career or earning sacrifices for your relationship or family?
- Do you have children you have parental responsibility for who are financially dependent on you?
Some solicitors have been known to charge up to £500 per hour.
How do I start the divorce proceedings?
According to the Citizens Advice Bureau you’ll need to pay a £593 fee when you send your divorce application to the divorce centre.
If you agree on your divorce and the reasons why, getting a divorce legally finalised will usually take 4 to 6 months. It might take longer if you need to sort out issues with money, property or children, which will have to be done separately.
We are very experienced in dealing with divorce, contact us here at Penny Raby & Co if this applies to you.
