Family Law
Divorce, financial settlement and family solicitor costs under the 2026 no-fault regime.
Divorce solicitor fees UK: £1,500–£30,000+ depending on complexity. Court fees, financial orders, mediation costs explained. Regional comparison.
UK solicitor hourly rates: £150–£700/hr depending on specialism and location. SRA guideline rates, regional breakdown, and tips to reduce your legal bill.
Settlement agreement solicitor fees UK: £500–£1,000 for employee (often employer-paid). Full breakdown of independent legal advice costs and employer contributions.
How family legal costs work
Since April 2022, divorce in England and Wales has been 'no-fault' — neither spouse has to blame the other — which has made many straightforward divorces cheaper and quicker. The divorce itself is often simple; the bigger costs come from sorting out money, property and arrangements for children, especially if these are disputed.
Ways to keep costs down
Before applying to court about money or children, most people must attend a Mediation Information and Assessment Meeting (MIAM). Mediation is usually far cheaper than going to court. Legal aid for family cases is now limited mainly to cases involving domestic abuse or child protection. Many solicitors offer fixed-fee packages for the divorce paperwork and charge hourly for financial negotiations — ask which parts are fixed.
General information for England and Wales unless stated, not legal advice. Last reviewed 28 October 2026.