Paying for a Divorce: Costs, Hourly Rates, Fixed Fees & Funding Options

When it comes to life-changing events like divorce, expert legal advice from an experienced family law solicitor is crucial. However, the associated legal costs can be a cause of concern. To help, we offer an initial appointment free of charge as well as a range of ways to pay for your legal fees.

The breakdown of any relationship is a time of great upheaval, with additional emotional and financial pressures. Solicitor fees and other costs associated with divorce can be a worrying proposition.

To ease the burden, our award-winning family law solicitors offer free initial consultations and fixed-fee consultations for more complex cases.

Free, no-obligation telephone consultations

Our team offers free 15-minute initial telephone advice for any new divorce enquiries. This initial advice is without any obligation from you and will enable you to understand your legal position. Our experienced family law experts will provide you with recommended options on how to proceed.

1-hour, fixed fee appointments

Sometimes, gaining a clear understanding of your situation and offering advice on next steps can take a little longer than one of our free 15-minute appointments. In these circumstances, to provide further detailed advice, we are currently offering 1-hour fixed fee appointments. This includes a detailed follow-up letter of advice.

This may be suitable for advising on initial queries that need more in-depth advice or for matters which are currently ongoing – for example, where court proceedings are involved, and urgent advice is required.

Our charge for a 1-hour appointment is £300, which includes VAT at 20% which includes a full advice letter which will be delivered to you following your appointment and your file will be left open for 12 months if you ever need more advice.

Hourly rates

We can charge on the basis of time taken. Our rate per hour is £342 (this fee includes VAT at 20%) – this is competitive within the industry and gives you the reassurance of having been advised by highly experienced legal professionals.

We always aim to work strictly to the initial costs estimate provided to you. In the event that costs related to your case need to be increased – for example, as a result of more information arising, or further representation in court being required – we will communicate in a clear, timely manner, ensuring you are fully informed throughout.

This may be required for more complex and contested cases, such as those involving children, complex cases and the resolution of financial issues.

While a senior solicitor’s hourly rate is higher, their depth of expertise frequently results in lower overall costs. By drawing on years of specialist experience in complex matrimonial matters, they can pinpoint key issues and reach resolutions more swiftly. This efficient, 'no-nonsense' approach typically requires fewer billable hours than a less experienced practitioner, who may need more time for research and deliberation.

It is our aim to provide our clients with the most cost-effective advice, achieving the very best outcome possible for you swiftly and efficiently.

Hourly rates for divorce solicitors: how it works

• Initial cost estimate: We will work within a cost estimate agreed with you at the beginning of your case. If that initial estimate changes, due to additional work that becomes apparent as the case progresses, we will confirm that to you and seek your agreement so you fully understand the amount of your ongoing costs.

• Monthly invoices: We will provide you with a monthly invoice together with a breakdown of time and costs incurred in the month. We will ask that you settle your monthly fees as you are invoiced.

Fixed fees

We can offer fixed fees for specific legal procedures from start to finish. Our fixed fees ensure that your case will not cost any more or less than the sum we agree with you. We will ask you to pay the fixed fee into our client account at the beginning of the case and will invoice you as the case progresses.

We will aim to work within the fixed fee. If your fee needs to be revised, we will confirm this to you. This will be as a consequence of unforeseen circumstances arising with your case – for example, with the amount of time for preparation or amendments to court documents, or responses from your partner or their nominated solicitors.

Funding options for divorce fees

Court fees (£612) need to be paid in full when you file your application. You may be able to apply for a reduction in the court fees (or not have to pay them at all) if you qualify for help with fees.

If you are still finding difficulties in paying for your divorce, there are a number of funding options available to you. Applications can be made to third-party financial companies who may be able to offer loan agreements to cover solicitor fees. In these circumstances, invoices are approved by yourself and then often paid directly by the finance company.

Although we are not affiliated with these companies, we can provide basic advice on this process and how to help with payment for your case.

Emsleys: here to guide you through divorce

Divorce is difficult, but having the right people on your side makes it easier. Our family law team has been practising since 1987. In that time, we have provided expert advice, guidance and solutions on many, many divorces.

Rated as ‘Excellent’ on Trustpilot and a ‘Leading Firm’ in The Legal 500, 99% of customers saying they would use us again and recommend us to their family and friends. Explore our awards and testimonials to learn more about why we believe we are best placed to guide you through your divorce.

As well as a sensitive, client-focused service, we offer clear advice on costs to help you pay for your divorce. To arrange a free, no-obligation 15-minute consultation on your situation, get in touch today.

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