How much does a divorce cost?

The Court currently charges a fee of £550 for issuing a divorce petition. The Court may charge additional fees if the divorce includes a request for an order regarding financial and/or child arrangements. The divorce petition can be started online, and the fee can also be paid online.

In some cases, legal assistance may be required. The cost of legal assistance will vary depending on the type of divorce. It is possible to hire a lawyer on a fixed fee basis where the divorce is undefended. Prices will vary from firm to firm but, generally, fees should not exceed £750 plus VAT in addition to the Court fee of £550.

Alternatively, it is possible to hire a lawyer on a pay as you go basis. This is suitable for defended divorces and divorces where finances and/or children are involved.

It would mean paying a lawyer’s hourly rate, which can differ from firm to firm and from region to region. For example, a solicitor at a national law firm in London is likely to charge more than a solicitor on a high street in Newcastle. Hourly rates will usually be between £150 and £300 depending upon their firm, region and experience. It is sometimes possible to negotiate a lawyer’s hourly rate.