easiest way to divorce?

kersh01472

Hi
Me and my ex have been split up and been living in apart now for over 2 years.
I've had the Morgage changed to just my name and paid her,her half of the equity (through a solicitor)
We have two kids under 10 but we have agreed terms with them and I see them as much as I can. I pay monthly child support.
We are in good terms and have both agreed to divorce.
What is the best & cheapest way?
I've seen these websites claiming It only costs £100 but the government website says a "diy" divorce is around 500. Can anyone advise my best path please

girlsmum

Download the forms and send them in yourself https://www.gov.uk/divorce/file-for-divorce

TBagpuss

The online sites don't include in their figures the cost of the court fee. This is currently £550 unless you qualify for a reduction, and is payable regardless of whether you do the divorce yourself, through n on line firm or via a solicitor.

It is worth checking whether either you or your ex are eligable for a reduction in the court fee - there is a calculator you can download here

If your children live mainly with your ex then she is more likely to qualify for exemption or reduction than you as the calculator gives an allowance for children, and if she qualifiies and you don't (or if she would be entitled to a bigger reduction than you) then it would make sense for her to divorce you rather than the other way aqround (there is nothing to stop you agreeing to split the costs, either way)

As it is fairly amicable, I'd suggest that you download the form and leaflets yourself, and divorce based on 2 years separation with your ex's consent.

I do however recommend that you use a solicitor to draw up a financial order. This won't be hugely expensive if it is simply a clean break, but it protects both of you from the risk of the other coming back to try to make new financial claims in the future.

jackieblack

kersh01472 wrote: »

I've had the Morgage changed to just my name and paid her,her half of the equity (through a solicitor)
We have two kids under 10 but we have agreed terms with them and I see them as much as I can. I pay monthly child support.

You will need to have your financial agreement sealed by the court, after obtaining the Decree Nisi, in order for it to be legally binding.