Family law solicitors are warning that the price of obtaining a divorce may soon become unaffordable for many as the cost to file a divorce as imposed by The Ministry of Justice in England and Wales is set for a further dramatic increase.
The fee for filing a divorce in County Court increased by 14% to £340.00 from £300 on 1st September 2010. Following comments from the Ministry of Justice that the current position for the funding of divorce and family matters is ‘unsustainable’, further fee increases are expected by 2011.
On the price increases, Antonia Love, Partner and Head of Family Law at Farleys Solicitors LLP comments:
“It is worrying that with the rumoured increases in Family Court Proceedings, and specifically filing the petition for divorce, couples might be put off filing for divorce due to concerns regarding costs. Whilst it is always sad when a marriage breaks down, the strain of staying in a marriage that is no longer working and is beyond recovery can have wider, long-lasting consequences on the individuals and any children involved.
“Even with the rise in Court fees as implemented on 1st September 2010, Farleys offer affordable solutions for obtaining a divorce. Our fixed fee divorce service has been designed as an affordable option and costs only £650 (plus VAT), plus any applicable Court fees.
“Whilst a fixed fee divorce might not be open to all couples, as the service is dependent upon the divorce being undefended, (ie. where both parties are in agreement and wish to proceed without argument) we will be able to advise you of the best option for you at an early stage”.