Escape an Unhappy Marriage Without Breaking the Bank
Thousands of individuals are staying in unhappy marriages because they believe they can't afford to get divorced. According to Legal & General, one in five recent divorces were delayed due to costs. However, divorce doesn't have to be expensive. Since the introduction of no-fault divorce in England and Wales in April 2022, the process has become simpler and more affordable. Innovative legal firms are also revolutionizing the market with cost-effective solutions for break-ups. If you want to end your marriage without draining your wallet, read on for some tips on how to keep costs down.
How to Separate for Under £1,000
Divorce lawyers' hourly rates of £200 to £300 can quickly add up to thousands of pounds. However, hiring a legal expert isn't always necessary. If you and your spouse are on speaking terms, have straightforward finances, and agree on childcare arrangements, you can handle most of the divorce process yourself and seek legal advice at key points. The divorce application fee in England and Wales is £593, but low-income individuals may qualify for assistance. Additionally, a £53 consent order is essential to legally bind the division of finances and child maintenance. While you can attempt to complete the consent order yourself, it's recommended to seek help to ensure the legal paperwork is drafted correctly.
Consider Alternatives to Solicitors
If you prefer to use a solicitor, some offer fixed-fee divorce services to help keep costs in check. The Co-op Legal Services, for example, has a fixed fee starting at £400. However, additional costs may apply for resolving financial, asset, or child-related issues. It's crucial to make the solicitor's job as easy as possible by gathering your financial information and having a clear agenda for each meeting.
Try Mediation to Settle Disputes
Mediation is an excellent alternative to using solicitors, especially for couples who struggle to find common ground. In mediation, a neutral third party helps facilitate an agreement, potentially saving months of back-and-forth between two legal teams. Mediation typically costs around £140 per session, with an average of five appointments. Qualified mediators can be found through the Family Mediation Council.
Keep Costs Down if It Ends up in Court
If you can't reach an agreement through mediation or other forms of dispute resolution, going to court may be necessary. However, costs can quickly escalate in court, with solicitor's fees reaching £15,000 or more. To save money, consider buying in legal help as needed rather than having a solicitor handle every aspect of the case. Another cost-saving option is hiring a barrister directly through the "direct access" scheme. Barristers can provide legal advice and representation in court while allowing you to manage the day-to-day aspects of the case. Visit legalchoices.org.uk or barcouncil.org.uk to find suitable options.
Learn from Others' Experiences
Caroline Job, a mother of three, spent £35,000 on legal costs during her two-year divorce battle. She wishes she had known about more affordable options. Caroline advises individuals going through a divorce to gather as much knowledge as possible and seek financial support from family members if needed. Despite the difficulties, she is proud of how she rebuilt her life.
Remember, divorce doesn't have to be financially crippling. By exploring cost-effective solutions and seeking the right support, you can navigate the process while keeping costs down.
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