Online divorce solicitors

[Bengal]

Hi I'm new to this site. I've quitems a complicated case. I'm about to start divorce proceedings. Have looked at doing it myself but feel I'd like solicitors involved but don't want to spend loads. I've seen an online divorce website that is solicitors for a flat rate. About £599 plus the court fee costs as well. Does anyone have experience or advice on this please?

Many thanks

[Celestine]

Re: Online divorce solicitors

Hi there.

Most solicitors firms will offer fixed fees for divorces nowadays. £599 plus court costs is 'reasonable' for the petitioner. However, be aware that this will only cover the basic paperwork and form filling as well as support and advice as the case progresses. A fixed fee price usually reflects on a straight forward no contest divorce where both parties fundamentally agree what will happen to finances, house and children.

If your divorce gets complex and mud starts being slung, you could be looking at extra costs associated with extra letters and so on. Some divorce lawyers take their clients' instruction as an open invite to fire off letters to their ex's solicitor, so you must be very firm with your solicitor about how such extra work is handled.

Good luck xx

[Amethyst]

Re: Online divorce solicitors

Court fees would be £410 at the moment. Possibly a further £45 later on for the decree absolute.

Fixed fee divorces range from £150 to £800+ excluding court fees. Also double check whether the quote you have had is inclusive of VAT ( as that adds another 20% on the legal fees if not ). And check what services are offered - some will just provide you with the form to complete and submit yourself, and others will run the entire process for you. At £599 + vat and court fees I'd expect it to include doing all the work for you. Your total overall would be in the region of £1100.

Check out the firms reviews too ( trustpilot is better than just 'testimonials' on the firms own website) .

As Celestine said, a straightforward divorce, where you both agree and there's no major issues with finances, children and assets, is suitable for fixed fee. Many firms also offer a fixed fee or free first appointment which could be very useful if you aren't sure if a fixed fee divorce is suitable for your circumstances.