Do You Need a Solicitor for a Divorce UK

Divorce is one of the most emotionally and financially challenging events many people face in their lives. In the UK, the introduction of no fault divorce in 2022 has made the process more straightforward, raising the question of whether a solicitor is actually necessary. While it is legally possible to get a divorce without professional legal help, there are important considerations that determine whether using a solicitor is advisable.

The Legal Position

Under current UK law, you do not need a solicitor to apply for a divorce. The process can be started online through the government’s digital service, which allows individuals to submit applications, pay the court fee and manage progress electronically. For couples who agree on all aspects of the divorce, including financial arrangements and childcare, it is entirely possible to complete the process without a solicitor. The system has been designed to make access to divorce more straightforward, especially in uncontested cases.

When a Solicitor Is Not Essential

If both parties are in agreement, have relatively simple finances and no disputes over children, many couples choose to handle the divorce themselves. The government’s system provides step by step guidance, and the legal forms are more user friendly than in the past. In such cases, the main cost is the court fee, currently £593, rather than solicitor’s fees. For some, this route feels more manageable and avoids additional legal expenses at what is often already a difficult time financially.

When a Solicitor Becomes Valuable

However, while you do not need a solicitor, many people benefit from legal advice during divorce proceedings. Issues relating to property, pensions, maintenance or custody can quickly become complex, and mistakes in handling them can have long term consequences. A solicitor ensures that financial settlements are fair and legally binding, reducing the risk of future disputes. They can also provide objective advice during what is often an emotional process, helping clients make clear decisions based on their rights rather than on stress or pressure.

Financial Settlements and Consent Orders

Even in amicable divorces, one area where solicitors are particularly valuable is in drafting consent orders. These are formal court orders that make financial agreements legally binding. Without one, either party could potentially make financial claims in the future, even years after the divorce has been finalised. While couples can agree their own division of assets, a solicitor ensures the consent order is properly drafted, protecting both parties. For many, this step alone makes involving a solicitor worthwhile.

Child Arrangements

If children are involved, the question of where they live, how time is shared and how financial support is provided can create additional complications. While parents can reach their own agreements, a solicitor can help negotiate fair arrangements and, if necessary, represent clients in court. Ensuring that children’s welfare is prioritised is central to UK family law, and professional guidance helps avoid future conflict and misunderstandings.

Conclusion

You do not need a solicitor to get a divorce in the UK, and for straightforward cases, the process can be managed independently through the government’s online system. However, solicitors play an important role in ensuring that financial settlements, property arrangements and childcare decisions are handled fairly and legally. For anyone with shared assets, pensions, property or children, seeking legal advice is strongly recommended to protect long term interests. Choosing whether to use a solicitor depends on the complexity of the situation and the level of agreement between both parties.