Getting divorced needn't cost a fortune
The average legal fees for a UK divorce are now £2,000* – and that’s before you factor in the expense of setting up a new home. Here are some tips for easing the financial burden
Make sure you know where financial documents are kept. ‘Look at closing joint accounts and setting up alternatives to pay your outgoings as you will be jointly liable for debts on the joint account,’ says top divorce lawyer Vanessa Lloyd Platt.
Consider an online divorce if your split is uncontested. All paperwork and guidelines can be downloaded, meaning you won’t have to pay a solicitor. Try Divorce Online.
Don’t fixate on keeping your home. ‘Moving can mean a fresh start with a better settlement,’ says Vanessa. ‘Pensions are often the second biggest asset. You may be entitled to 50 per cent of a partner’s pension, so ask for a pension sharing order.’
Call a truce. ‘Lawyers can charge £100 or more per hour, plus VAT,’ says Vanessa. ‘So leave emotions at the door. If you focus on legal matters with your lawyer it can save huge costs.’
*Norwich Union study on cost of divorce, 2006
