On line divorces – the myths

Posted by familylaw on 12th November 2014

Often you see adverts online which seem to offer divorces at incredibly low prices, offering to act for both parties, offering fixed fee prices as opposed to expensive hourly rates and offering to get parties divorced more quickly.

Are these promises too good to be true?

Costs

Be wary – some online companies offer packages where they charge in stages – some make a small charge simply for providing you with the forms which can be obtained free from the court.

Court fees – these can be hidden disbursements – unless you can satisfy the court that you are on a low income you will have to pay court fees.Many solicitors offer fixed fee divorce packages.  We offer a range of packages which ensures you have access to expert advice, without it costing you the earth.

Even if you choose to carry out your own divorce it is worth asking a solicitor to look at the court forms before sending them to the court.  Any mistakes may not be picked up by the court until much further on in the process, meaning delays and further court fees.

Time scales

Divorce usually  takes between 4-6 months and online companies cannot rush the procedures any more than solicitors firms.  The court still have to follow the same protocol.

Finances

There are consequences of concluding your divorce without considering financial matters – even if there are no assets. It is imperative that you seek advice about this before the divorce process  is completed. TFLC offer a free half hour appointment where we are happy to discuss how we can help, and how much that help will cost you – fixed fee or otherwise.

Here at the Family Law Company our Exeter and Plymouth solicitors are always up front and honest – and dealing with a human is always better than handling things over the phone or email when it comes to serious issues like divorce.

So if you need help, advice or our legal services, get in touch today.

Need some advice? Get in touch today