Cost of Divorce in the UK: An In-Depth Look (Updated in April 2024)

Divorce is often a complex and emotionally draining process. Along with the personal upheaval, understanding the financial implications is also crucial. Here, at Anthony Gold Solicitors, our aim is to simplify this process for you, providing clarity about the cost of divorce in the UK and the associated fees involved. As of April 2024, the family court fees will be increasing.

Average Estimated Costs When Getting a Divorce in the UK 

Average Cost of an Uncontested Divorce 

An uncontested divorce, where both parties agree on all aspects of the divorce including financial settlement and child arrangements, can be the most cost-effective way to end a marriage. In these cases, legal fees could range between £500 and £1500 excluding VAT. However, keep in mind that this figure does not include the court fee of £593 or any other potential costs, such as the cost of drafting a financial consent order.  

Average Cost of a Contested Divorce  

The average cost of hiring a divorce lawyer in the UK can vary significantly, depending on the nature and complexity of the case. In contested cases where negotiation or court intervention is required, and there are disagreements on financial settlements and child arrangements, costs can escalate, and you could expect to pay anywhere from £2,000 to £30,000 or more for each set of proceedings. 

Financial Settlement 

The financial settlement can be one of the most significant costs in a divorce. It involves dividing assets such as properties, savings, and pensions. The cost of reaching a financial settlement can range widely depending on whether you can reach an agreement through negotiation, or if the case goes to court. In the latter scenario, the legal costs involved can increase considerably and can reach £30,000 or more. 

Child arrangements

Agreeing the arrangements for your children on divorce can also be one of the most significant costs, financially and emotionally. It involves agreeing who the children should live with and the time they should spend with each parent. It can also involve agreeing specific issues such as schooling, medical treatment, change of name, and international travel or relocation within the UK. The cost of agreeing the arrangements for your children can range widely depending on whether you reach an agreement directly or if court proceedings are necessary. In the latter scenario, the legal costs involve can increase considerably and can reach £30,000 or more.

Average Divorce Court Fees 

In addition to the initial £593 filing fee, other court fees may be incurred during a divorce, especially if financial or child arrangements can’t be agreed upon. This could include fees for financial order applications (£305), child arrangement orders (£255), or enforcement orders (£110 or more). 

Average Cost of Divorce Mediation 

Mediation is a method of resolving disputes and can be a cost-effective alternative to court proceedings. The average cost of divorce mediation can range between £200 and £400 per hour. A typical mediation process may require between three to five sessions. 

Average Cost of Divorce Arbitration 

Arbitration, another alternative to court proceedings, can also vary in cost. Depending on the complexity of the issues to be resolved, it could range from £2,500 to £5,000 or more. This cost includes both the arbitrator’s fees and the room hire for the arbitration process. 

Child Maintenance Costs 

Child maintenance is the financial support that helps towards your child’s upbringing. The amount depends on a range of factors such as the paying parent’s income, the number of children, and how much time the child spends with each parent. It’s typically paid until the child turns 16 or until they’re 20 if they remain in approved education or training. 

Legal Aid for Divorce Costs 

Legal Aid can be a lifeline for individuals who are unable to afford the costs of a divorce. However, as of April 2013, Legal Aid is only available in specific circumstances, such as when there’s evidence of domestic abuse or child abduction. If you’re eligible, Legal Aid can cover the costs of legal advice, mediation, and court representation. It’s always a good idea to check your eligibility and understand the scope of Legal Aid in your specific situation. 

Costs and Fees to Consider Before Getting a Divorce in the UK 

Court Fees 

The cost of divorce in the UK starts with the basic court fee. the cost of filing for a divorce is £593. This fee covers the cost of processing the divorce application (previously known as a divorce petition) through to the final order (previously decree absolute). However, it’s essential to remember that this is only the starting point and does not include legal fees for any advice sought on the process or any issues that arise along the way. The cost of the divorce process itself is separate to the costs you may incur in reaching a financial settlement or agreeing on the arrangements for your children following your separation.  

Legal Fees 

Legal fees can significantly increase the total cost of a divorce. This generally includes solicitor’s fees, barrister’s fees if court hearings are needed, and potentially, the cost of hiring other professionals such as accountants or property valuers. The exact cost can vary depending on the complexity of the case, the level of conflict, and the hourly rates of the professionals involved. 

At Anthony Gold, our Family Law solicitors understand the financial burden of a divorce and strive to provide the most cost-effective solution for each client. We offer 20 minutes of free initial consultation for new clients who can book an appointment here and we can offer an initial fixed fee meeting thereafter where we can discuss and advise in more detail.

Financial Settlement 

Reaching a financial settlement can be another significant cost in divorce. This includes division of assets like properties, pensions, savings, and potentially spousal or child maintenance payments. To make an informed decision about your financial settlement, it’s critical to seek legal advice. 

Other Costs 

Additional costs may include counselling services or mediation costs, especially in cases involving child custody or arrangements for the children during and after divorce. 

Further, it’s worth noting that the timeline of the divorce proceedings can also influence the total cost. For instance, delaying serving your divorce application or withdrawing your application can lead to additional expenses. You may also incur additional costs if your spouse ignores the divorce application. 

Planning Ahead 

There are measures you can take to manage your finances during a divorce. For instance, nuptial agreements can help in planning the financial implications if the marriage ends in divorce. 

It’s also worth understanding the implications of the new no-fault divorce law and its potential impact on the costs involved. 

Preparing for Your Consultation 

If you decide to hire a solicitor, it’s a good idea to come prepared for your initial consultation. Here’s a handy guide on what to bring to your initial consultation to make the most out of it. 

Our dedicated team of solicitors can help you navigate the legal aspects, whether it’s dealing with unique situations like divorce and dementia or how to proceed if your spouse ignores the divorce petition. 

Understanding the cost of divorce can help alleviate some of the stress involved in the process. If you’re considering a divorce, seeking legal advice early on can help you manage the costs better. At Anthony Gold Solicitors, we’re here to provide the guidance you need to navigate this challenging period with confidence.

Book a Free 20-Minute Consultation with our Family Lawyers

Navigating through the cost of divorce can be a challenging task. However, with a clear understanding of the expenses involved and the right legal guidance, it’s possible to manage the process effectively and in a cost-efficient manner. Our experienced Family Law solicitors at Anthony Gold are always here to help. Book a free 20-minute consultation now: