Fixed-Fee Divorce Services

Fixed-fee divorce services offer cost certainty - you know exactly what you'll pay upfront. Here's how they work, what's included, and how to choose the right option.

What is a fixed-fee divorce?

A fixed-fee divorce is where a solicitor or divorce service charges a set price for handling your divorce, regardless of how long it takes. Unlike hourly billing, you won’t get unexpected bills if things take longer than anticipated.

Best suited for:

• Uncontested divorces where both parties agree
• Situations where finances are already agreed or straightforward
• People who want budget certainty

Less suitable for:

• Contested divorces
• Complex financial disputes
• Cases requiring court hearings
• Situations where the other party is uncooperative

Types of fixed-fee services

Online divorce services

Fully online platforms that handle the paperwork for simple divorces.

Pros: Cheapest option, convenient Cons: Limited support, no legal advice, not suitable for any complexity

Solicitor fixed-fee packages

Traditional law firms offering set prices for specific services.

Pros: Legal advice included, professional oversight, can escalate if needed Cons: More expensive than online, still limitations on scope

Hybrid services

Combining online efficiency with solicitor input at key stages.

Typical cost: £800 - £1,800

These services use technology for routine tasks but involve qualified solicitors for advice and document review.

What’s typically included in fixed fees

Usually included:

✓ Initial consultation and advice ✓ Preparing and filing divorce application ✓ Handling acknowledgement of service ✓ Applying for conditional order ✓ Applying for final order ✓ Drafting consent order (if included) ✓ Correspondence with the court ✓ Basic correspondence with your spouse’s solicitor

Usually excluded (check carefully):

✗ Court fees (£593 for divorce application) ✗ Additional negotiations beyond a set number ✗ Work arising from disputes or complications ✗ Contested hearings ✗ Barrister fees ✗ Expert reports (valuations, pensions) ✗ Enforcement if orders aren’t complied with ✗ VAT (check if prices are inclusive)

Comparing fixed-fee providers

When comparing services, consider:

1. What’s actually included?

Get a detailed breakdown. Some key questions:

• Is VAT included?
• Are court fees included?
• How many rounds of negotiation on the consent order?
• What happens if my spouse doesn’t respond?
• Is there a time limit on completing the service?

2. Who does the work?

Cheaper isn’t always worse - for a genuinely simple divorce, a paralegal-run service may be perfectly adequate.

3. What support is available?

• Can you speak to someone by phone?
• Do you get a named contact?
• What are response times?
• Is there out-of-hours support for urgent issues?

4. What if things go wrong?

• Is there a complaints procedure?
• Are they regulated by the SRA (Solicitors Regulation Authority)?
• What insurance do they have?

Is fixed-fee right for you?

Fixed-fee is ideal if:

✓ You and your spouse agree on divorce ✓ You’ve already agreed on finances (or have none to divide) ✓ There are no children disputes ✓ You want budget certainty ✓ Your situation is straightforward ✓ Your spouse will cooperate with the process

Fixed-fee may not work if:

✗ Your spouse might contest the divorce ✗ You haven’t agreed on finances ✗ There are complex assets (businesses, multiple properties, overseas assets) ✗ There are disputes about children ✗ Your spouse is likely to be obstructive ✗ You need ongoing legal advice and support ✗ You’re uncertain about your rights and need guidance

Fixed-fee vs hourly: real comparison

Simple uncontested divorce with consent order

All figures include court fees

When complexity arises

Imagine your spouse initially agrees but then starts disputing the pension split:

Red flags to watch for

🚩 “Unlimited” claims - Nothing is truly unlimited. Check the terms.

🚩 No mention of exclusions - Reputable providers are clear about limitations.

🚩 Unusually cheap - If it’s half the price of competitors, ask why.

🚩 No SRA regulation - For solicitor services, check they’re properly regulated.

🚩 Pressure to sign up quickly - Take time to compare options.

🚩 Hidden court fee charges - Some add “handling fees” to pass through court fees.

🚩 No named contact - You should know who’s handling your case.

Making fixed-fee work for you

Before you start:

1. Have an honest conversation with your spouse - Are you really in agreement?
2. List all your assets and debts - Is it actually straightforward?
3. Consider children arrangements - Are these agreed?
4. Get multiple quotes - Compare at least 3 providers
5. Read terms carefully - Understand what triggers extra charges

During the process:

1. Respond promptly - Delays can cause issues
2. Be organised - Provide documents when requested
3. Communicate changes - If circumstances change, tell your provider
4. Keep records - Document everything in case of disputes

If problems arise:

1. Raise concerns early - Don’t wait until things escalate
2. Get clarity on extra costs - Before agreeing to additional work
3. Consider switching - If the service isn’t meeting your needs

Questions to ask fixed-fee providers

1. Is this price inclusive of VAT and court fees?
2. What exactly is included in this fee?
3. What would trigger additional charges?
4. Who will be handling my case?
5. How do I contact you if I have questions?
6. What’s your complaints procedure?
7. Are you regulated by the SRA?
8. What happens if my spouse doesn’t cooperate?
9. Is there a time limit to complete the service?
10. Can you show me sample terms and conditions?

Finding fixed-fee solicitors

Many traditional solicitors now offer fixed fees alongside hourly rates. Don’t assume you have to use a dedicated online service to get price certainty.

Next steps