In an attempt to cut costs, many couples who have decided to end their relationship go down the DIY divorce route. However, without the help of a divorce lawyer, a do-it-yourself divorce can quickly become expensive and time-consuming, adding to what already is a stressful situation.
Even without hiring a lawyer, court fees mean that filing for divorce in the UK will cost you £550. This fee does not include costs for:
- A DIY Divorce Service, which range from £59 – £399 in the UK
- Financial Orders
- Child Arrangements
Meanwhile, divorce involves paperwork, and lots of it. For many, this is where the problems start when filing a DIY divorce petition…
Did you know? 60% of all divorce petitions, filed with the courts without the help of a divorce lawyer, contain errors that result in delays and additional costs for petitioners!
Based on this statistic alone, even DIY divorce service providers recommend that petitioners seek advice from a reputable divorce lawyer prior to submitting divorce papers.
Divorce is Rarely Straightforward
DIY Divorce is rarely straightforward.
While incorrect paperwork can result in additional fees, a DIY divorce is very rarely a straightforward process. It relies on separating couples agreeing on the division of assets and the care of children etc…
However, speaking from experience, while many couples can agree on these things initially, it only takes either party to contest part of a divorce settlement and suddenly, the process takes a whole different direction. Before you know it, your partner has hired a divorce lawyer and is receiving legal help in an effort to secure a better divorce settlement.
Trying to do battle against your partner and a legal professional… alone… will ultimately end up costing you in more ways than one. To resolve disputes amicably in this situation, instructing a divorce lawyer is the best option.
DIY Divorce can Cost You Emotionally
If your DIY divorce petition runs into paperwork problems, rising fees and countless delays it only adds to the stress of what is already a very stressful situation. A DIY divorce gives you no one to turn to for advice should things go wrong.
If your divorce petition is hit with delays, it can affect you emotionally. Seemingly endless paperwork can be time-consuming and physically draining. Equally, if your partner suddenly decides that a DIY divorce settlement isn’t for them, what follows could be a long, drawn out battle, which you may not be prepared for and you will need a legal ally…
Why Hire Me, Claire Holland?
…With that in mind, hiring me for your divorce case gives you a safety net and someone to talk to if you have questions and concerns. I have been in the legal profession for more than 25 years, establishing a trustworthy reputation.
For confidential, professional legal advice that includes fixed fees for straightforward divorce cases, give me a call on 0116 436 2170 or email claire@hollandfamilylaw.co.uk for a free, initial 30-minute consultation.
