How Much Does a Divorce Cost in the UK?

One of the first questions we’re asked is: “How much will my divorce cost?”

The total cost depends on your circumstances, including whether there are financial matters or child arrangements to resolve, and how quickly an agreement can be reached.

Generally, divorce costs are split into three areas:

• The divorce process itself
• Financial settlements and division of assets
• Arrangements for children

The Cost of the Divorce Application

Since the introduction of no-fault divorce in April 2022, the divorce process has become more straightforward. The application is made online, and there is a Court fee of £612. Those on low income or with limited savings may be eligible for a fee exemption.

In addition, solicitor’s fees typically apply. Many firms, including ours, offer a fixed-fee divorce service for handling the paperwork, usually around £600-£700 plus VAT.

Financial Settlement Costs on Divorce

A divorce itself does not end financial ties between you and your spouse. To protect yourself legally, you will need a Court Order that sets out how finances are divided.

If you reach an agreement

If you can agree on financial arrangements, your solicitor can draft a financial Consent Order for the Court’s approval.

• Court fee: £60
• Solicitor’s costs: Around £3,000-£5,000 plus VAT for a straightforward settlement

If you cannot reach an agreement

If agreement isn’t possible, for example, if one party refuses to disclose their finances, a contested financial remedy application may be necessary. This involves multiple court hearings and more complex legal work.

• Solicitor’s costs: £15,000-£20,000 plus VAT (or higher if the case goes to a final hearing)
• Additional costs: Barrister’s fees, expert reports (e.g. property valuations or pension assessments)

Complex assets

Where businesses, overseas property, or pensions are involved, specialist advice may be required. For example, a pension report from an actuary may cost £2,500-£3,000 plus VAT, typically shared between both parties.

Costs for Child Arrangements

If children are involved, parents are encouraged to agree arrangements directly or through family mediation, which is often far more cost-effective.

If an agreement cannot be reached, a court application may be necessary to decide matters such as:

• Where the children live
• How much time they spend with each parent
• Education, medical treatment, or overseas travel

Typical solicitor costs: £5,000 plus VAT or more, depending on the complexity of the case and whether it proceeds to a final hearing.

Paying Divorce Solicitor Fees: Costs Explained

It’s natural to feel that the cost of legal representation is daunting, especially during an emotionally and financially challenging time. However, it’s worth understanding how payments work and why investing in proper legal advice can save you money and stress in the long term.

Flexible payment options

At Hegarty, legal fees are usually billed monthly in instalments rather than as a single lump sum. This allows you to spread the cost throughout your case and manage payments more comfortably.

Why investing in legal advice is worth it

Although legal fees may seem high at first glance, properly resolving financial and legal matters now can prevent significant problems in the future. If financial settlements are not dealt with correctly, you could face:

• Future financial claims: Even years after divorce, your ex-spouse could make a claim against your income, property, pension, or inheritance if no binding court order is in place.
• Loss of property rights: Without a formal financial agreement, your ex may still have a legal interest in property or assets you acquire after the divorce.
• Unfair division of assets: Attempting to “DIY” a settlement without legal guidance could mean you lose out on money, property, pensions, or maintenance you’re entitled to.
• Tax or pension complications: Misunderstanding how assets like pensions or investments should be divided can lead to unexpected tax liabilities or long-term financial loss.

By investing in quality legal advice now, you are not just paying for legal paperwork, you are protecting your future financial security, ensuring a fair outcome, and gaining peace of mind.

Free Initial Consultation

At Hegarty, we offer a free initial telephone consultation with one of our experienced family lawyers. This gives you a clearer idea of the likely costs and options before you make any decisions.