Divorce
The breakdown of a relationship is a difficult and emotional time. Our staff are experienced in Divorce and Family Law and will deal with your case efficiently and sympathetically.
In divorce it is important that you act promptly to ensure that your interests and those of any children are properly taken care of.
“We understand divorce is emotionally difficult; we are experienced in helping clients through this troubled time”
What is a divorce?
The legal dissolution of your marriage by the court.
How do I get a divorce?
You must be married for at least 1 year to start divorce proceedings.
What is the divorce process?
Our free fact sheet explains how to get a divorce as well as what to expect through the court process to decree absolute, the document which finalises the end of your marriage.
How much does a divorce cost?
We understand that cost is a major concern when couples decide to end their marriage, so we offer package-priced options so you get the expertise of your own solicitor and you know the price you will pay.
What's the different between you and an online Solicitor?
Quite often online divorces are not run by Solicitors and therefore subtleties can be missed which can have repercussions later on, especially in relation to financial matters. The advantage of instructing Swain & Co Solicitors is that your divorce will be handled by an experienced family lawyer with precision and expertise.
Your Divorce, Your Way
If you wish to start divorce proceedings, we have three payment options for you to consider.
Bronze Fixed Fee Divorce Package
The Bronze Package is also known as the DIY divorce - choosing this option means you will conduct the divorce yourself.
We will provide guidance on completing the forms along with one hour's face to face advice.
£200 + VAT
The Bronze package does not include any action in respect of related matters regarding children or finances.
You can include the Clean Break add-on to this package to ensure no financial comeback in the future
Please note: Charges may vary if there are unforeseen problems, but we will always discuss this with you if the issue arises. You will need to pay the court fee of £410 unless you are exempt.
Silver Fixed Fee Divorce Package
Swain & Co Solicitors will:
- Provide and fill in all Court forms
- Deal with the Court and provide initial information on financial and children issues
- Complete divorce through to decree absolute
£500 + VAT
You can include the Clean Break add-on to this package to ensure no financial comeback in the future.
Please note: Charges may vary if there are unforeseen problems, but we will always discuss this with you if the issue arises. You will need to pay the court fee of £410 unless you are exempt.
Gold Divorce Package
The Gold Package is our Bespoke Service Divorce; our highest level of representation on divorce with all related issues at hourly rates.
We support you through the complete divorce process including financial issues and child arrangements. We will be with you every step of the way. Our solicitors will be easily accessible by phone and email.
£200 per hour + VAT and Court fees
We will provide estimates and can agree monthly payment to help with budgeting.
Consent Order - Add-On
Clean Break, also known as the Add-On Consent Order, can be used in conjunction with the Bronze or Silver divorce packages.
This order means that neither you nor your ex-partner will have any future financial comeback.
You and your ex-partner will come to the agreement and we will write it up to make it legally binding.
This add-on is essential for couples that want a clean break, regarding financial issues, after divorce and we have three options for you -
- £300 + VAT - for a clean break with no assets.
- £50 + VAT - per pension sharing.
- £500 + VAT - if there are assets and an agreement has been reached.
Please note: Charges may vary is there are unforeseen problems, but we will always discuss this with you if the issue arises.
If you have received divorce papers
We will advise you on receipt of divorce papers and help you complete the Acknowledgement of Service.
£120 + VAT
PLUS - We will provide initial information FREE.
We will pinpoint the matters that need attention and highlight any problems that need to be dealt with immediately or may arise later on. We will advise whether Legal Aid is available and what other payment plans are available. Telephone us on 023 92 483322 to discuss further.
We endeavour to make ourselves immediately available in emergency situations where violence is involved, or where other prompt action is required, for example to prevent money or property being disposed of.
Swain & Co Solicitors' Nicola Whitley, Associate Solicitor, explains the divorce process and what you should do when you receive a divorce petition.