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Cost Of Divorce/Dissolution FAQs

Last updated on May 20th, 2022 at 06:22 pm

Latest posts by Nicola Cancellara (see all)

    Click on the links below to jump to the relevant sections:

    How much does a divorce/dissolution application cost in the UK?

    The cost to make an application for divorce is £593.  It doesn’t matter whether one person is applying for the divorce or you are applying jointly.

    To apply for a divorce/dissolution, one or both of you must state that your marriage/civil partnership has broken down irretrievably.  No other evidence is needed.  A divorce application cannot be disputed.

    Most family solicitors offer fixed fees for divorce/dissolution, which may or may not include the court fees.

    Some divorces may involve complex factors, for example:

    • documents needing translation
    • other party living abroad

    Fixed fee packages do not include these elements.

    To find out more about court costs and fix fees, click here.

    How much does it cost to file divorce/dissolution papers?

    To initiate the divorce/dissolution process you are required to complete a divorce/dissolution application. You will also be required to pay a court fee which is currently £593. Dependant on your income, you may not have to pay all of the fee.

    The fee covers the costs of processing the divorce, including the final order application (formerly decree absolute)

    Payments would accompany your divorce application.

    What other costs might apply?

    In addition to the standard divorce/dissolution application fee of £593, you will need to pay your solicitors fees.  The may be a fixed fee, but other costs may apply, for example, if you require a replacement marriage certificate or if translation of documents is required.

    Find out more about our fixed fee packages.

    Can I get help with divorce/dissolution costs?

    If you earn less than a specified amount or claim certain benefits, you may not be required to pay the full cost of your court fees.

    Those claiming the following benefits can get help with their fees:

    • income-based Jobseeker’s Allowance (JSA)
    • income-related Employment and Support Allowance (ESA)
    • Income Support
    • Universal Credit (and you earn less than £6,000 a year)
    • Pension Credit (Guarantee Credit)

    At present (April 2o22), single people earning less than £1,170 a month before tax are eligible for help with their fees. The amount rises to £1,345 if the person is in a new relationship.

    The amount a person can earn before they are no longer eligible for financial aid also rises with every child they are responsible for.

    This guide can help you determine if you can get help with court fees.

    Who pays for the divorce/dissolution costs?

    If you are the divorce applicant, you will pay the application fee.  You can decide you is the applicant and who is the respondent if you want to.  If you are making a joint application, you will need to decide who will be applicant one, as they will be responsible for paying the court fee.

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