How much does a divorce solicitor cost in Wiltshire
# How Much Does a Divorce Solicitor Cost in Wiltshire?
**TL;DR:** Divorce solicitor costs in Wiltshire range from £150-350 per hour. Uncontested divorces typically cost £500-2,000, whilst contested cases can exceed £10,000. Fixed fees are available for straightforward divorces. Legal aid may help those on low incomes. Always ask about payment options upfront.
## Introduction
Getting a divorce is stressful enough without worrying about hidden costs. If you’re considering ending your marriage in Wiltshire, understanding solicitor fees is crucial. **Divorce solicitor costs** vary widely depending on your situation, the complexity of your case, and the firm you choose.
Most Wiltshire solicitors charge between £150 and £350 per hour. However, this doesn’t tell the whole story. Some offer fixed fees for simple divorces, whilst contested cases involving disputes can cost significantly more. The good news? You have options. Many solicitors offer flexible payment arrangements. Some work on no-win-no-fee bases for certain matters. Let’s break down what you’ll actually pay.
## What’s the Average Cost of an Uncontested Divorce in Wiltshire?
An uncontested divorce (where both parties agree) typically costs £500 to £2,000 in Wiltshire. This covers solicitor fees, court filing fees, and documentation. Court fees alone cost £593. The remainder covers your solicitor’s time and expertise. This is the cheapest option because there’s no dispute to resolve.
Many Wiltshire firms now offer fixed-fee uncontested divorce packages. These packages usually include: collecting information from you, completing court documents, liaising with your spouse’s solicitor, and representing you through the process. Fixed fees remove uncertainty. You’ll know exactly what you’re paying from the start.
## How Much More Will a Contested Divorce Cost?
Contested divorces cost significantly more than uncontested ones. Expect to pay £5,000-15,000+ when disputes exist. This includes fighting over finances, property, or child arrangements. The more disagreement, the more legal work required.
Solicitors charge hourly rates for contested cases. At £150-350 per hour, costs mount quickly. A case requiring ten hours of solicitor time costs £1,500-3,500 just in solicitor fees. Add court fees, barrister costs, and expert valuations, and the bill grows fast. Some contested cases run into tens of thousands of pounds.
## What About Legal Aid in Wiltshire?
Legal aid can help if you’ve limited income and savings. You’ll qualify if your disposable income is under £315 per month and savings are under £8,000. Legal aid covers solicitor fees for divorces involving domestic abuse or significant child welfare concerns.
However, most divorces don’t qualify for legal aid now. The rules changed in 2013. If you don’t qualify, you’ll pay privately. Ask your solicitor about payment plans. Many offer monthly instalments to spread costs.
## How Can You Save Money on Divorce Costs?
Keep costs down by staying organised and cooperative. Provide documents promptly. Avoid lengthy phone calls when emails work. Agree with your spouse wherever possible. Every hour saved reduces your bill.
Compare quotes from multiple Wiltshire solicitors. Costs vary between firms. Some charge more but offer better service. Others provide excellent value. Get written quotes before committing. Ask about fixed fees and payment options. Some solicitors offer free initial consultations. Use these to understand your options.
## Conclusion
Divorce solicitor costs in Wiltshire vary from £500 for simple divorces to £15,000+ for contested cases. Your actual cost depends on complexity, dispute levels, and solicitor choice. Uncontested divorces offer the best value. Legal aid may help those on low incomes. Always get written quotes and ask about payment plans before instructing a solicitor.
Ready to find professional help? Find a divorce solicitor near you by searching our free UK directory today.
## FAQ
**What’s the court fee for divorce in Wiltshire?**
The court filing fee is £593. This is fixed regardless of your solicitor’s charges.
**Can I get a free consultation with a Wiltshire divorce solicitor?**
Many solicitors offer free initial consultations lasting 15-30 minutes. Use this to understand costs and options.
**What’s included in a fixed-fee divorce package?**
Usually: initial advice, document preparation, court filing, communication with your spouse’s solicitor, and finalising the decree absolute.
**Do I need a solicitor for an uncontested divorce?**
No, you can apply yourself. However, solicitors ensure documents are correct and the process runs smoothly.
**Will my spouse pay my solicitor costs?**
Possibly. The court can order one party to pay the other’s costs. This usually happens in contested cases with clear fault. Discuss this with your solicitor.