How To Choose A Divorce Solicitor

Getting divorced is an emotional and unsettling time, no matter the length of the marriage.

Although as many as half of new marriages end in divorce, feelings of failure arise for many people, and knowing how to navigate finding a divorce solicitor can be difficult.

Finding the right divorce solicitor is essential to ensure the transition through divorce is as smooth as possible, and our guide is here to help.

When choosing a divorce solicitor, you will need to:

1. Check if you’re eligible for divorce 
2. Look for a solicitor with family law experience 
3. Ask for recommendations and read reviews 
4. Establish legal costs
5. Book a consultation 

1. Check If You’re Eligible For Divorce

Before choosing a divorce solicitor, you must check if you’re eligible for divorce.

It’s a common misconception that you can divorce as soon as a marriage breaks down, but 

you must have been married for over a year to get divorced in England or Wales.

Additionally, the marriage must be legally recognised in the UK, and the relationship must have permanently broken down. The same principles apply to a civil partnership. 

Once you’ve established that you’re eligible for divorce and have discussed getting a divorce with your spouse, you can find the right divorce solicitor.  

2. Look For A Solicitor With Family Law Experience 

Divorce is a vulnerable time, so you need someone that you can trust and who has the experience necessary to handle your case with care.

As such, looking for a solicitor specialising in family law is recommended. Family law specialists deal with these cases daily, meaning you can rest assured knowing your case is in safe hands.

Finding a family law solicitor is particularly important when you have children, as they will be able to advise you on how to talk to children about divorce as well as the next steps to support them through this difficult period.

At Harding Evans, our expert team of family and matrimonial solicitors will treat your case with the utmost sensitivity and concern. 

Contact our solicitors or visit our website to learn how we can assist you through this challenging time. 

3. Ask For Recommendations & Read Reviews 

Before choosing a divorce solicitor, you’ll want to ask your family and friends for recommendations. 

They’ll be able to offer their opinions and detail their experiences, highlighting any challenges they may have faced and recommend any local solicitors they’ve had positive experiences with.

Reading Google reviews is a good way to understand a solicitor or particular law firm better and gauge whether they’re the right choice. 

Google reviews will provide you with a sense of what a firm is doing well and will provide you with the reassurance that you need when dealing with the delicate matter of divorce.

A law firm with positive client testimonials on its website also indicates it will provide a high quality service you can trust.

4. Establish Legal Costs

Naturally, there are an array of costs associated with the divorce process in the UK.

This will include the cost of the divorce as well as the legal costs of appointing a solicitor.

Finding a divorce solicitor who is transparent about costs and open to discussing their fees is important to ensure you are prepared financially. 

How Much Does A Divorce Cost In The UK?

There is a Court fee of £593 to apply for a divorce.  The additional cost of a solicitor will vary as each case is different.

The total cost of divorce, including legal fees, can depend on many factors, including the solicitor’s fees, the divorce’s complexity, and the parties’ cooperation.

Generally speaking, each party will pay their own legal costs, and the person applying for the divorce will be responsible for the court fees.

5. Book A Consultation 

Lastly, before you choose a divorce solicitor, book a consultation. 

While it’s essential that you do your own research to narrow down your search, it’s crucial to book a consultation to ensure that you feel comfortable moving forward with the firm and solicitor in question. 

A consultation will allow you to express any concerns that you have and give you a better understanding of whether the divorce solicitor is the best choice.

Having a good relationship with your divorce solicitor where you’re comfortable is essential to ensure they can understand your situation. 

Some law firms offer consultations free of charge, while others charge a small fee.

That said, doing your due diligence to find a reputable law firm can make all the difference when it comes to divorce. 

How We Can Help

At Harding Evans, our experienced divorce solicitors are on hand to help.

As family law specialists, our team will be able to help and guide you with financial issues, and any matters involving the interests of your children.

We usually offer free consultations in most circumstances to ensure you feel confident you are selecting the right solicitor before proceeding.  It also gives you an opportunity to obtain complete information about costs before instructing us.

Contact us today to find out the next steps.