DO YOU NEED A SOLICITOR FOR DIVORCE IN THE UK?

With online divorce services now widely available, many people ask whether they actually need a solicitor when ending a marriage.

In some cases, the divorce application itself can be completed without legal representation. However, many people only realise later that divorce involves more than the legal ending of the marriage, particularly where finances, property or children are involved.

At Main Nickolls LLP, our Family Law team regularly advises clients across Kent, Surrey and London who initially began the process themselves but later required legal guidance to protect their financial position and avoid costly mistakes.

Can You Get Divorced Without a Solicitor?

Yes.

It is possible to apply for divorce online without using a solicitor, particularly where:

• Both parties agree that the marriage has broken down

• There are no disputes about finances

• There are no complications involving children

• Both parties are comfortable managing the paperwork

  
  

Since the introduction of no-fault divorce, the application process itself is more straightforward than many people expect.

However, the divorce application is only one part of the overall legal picture.

The Risk Many People Do Not Realise

A divorce legally ends the marriage, but it does not automatically resolve financial claims between spouses.

Without a properly drafted Consent Order, financial claims can remain open indefinitely — even years after the divorce has been finalised.

This means one party could potentially bring financial claims in the future unless a legally binding order is approved by the court.

This remains one of the most common misunderstandings we see in practice.

When Should You Speak to a Solicitor?

Legal advice becomes particularly important where any of the following apply:

• You own property together

• There are pensions, savings or investments

• There are children

• There is disagreement about finances or arrangements

• You want clarity about what you may be entitled to

  
  

Even where matters appear amicable, legal advice can help ensure nothing important is overlooked.

Is Using a Solicitor More Expensive?

Not always.

In many cases, obtaining legal advice early helps avoid greater costs later by:

• Preventing avoidable disputes

• Identifying risks at an early stage

• Helping both parties reach agreement more efficiently

• Ensuring financial arrangements are properly documented

  
  

A small amount of advice early in the process can often prevent significant expense later.

A Practical Middle Ground

Many people choose a balanced approach.

This often involves:

• Managing the divorce application themselves

• Instructing a solicitor for financial settlement advice

• Obtaining a Consent Order to close future claims

  
  

For many clients, this provides cost control while still protecting long-term financial certainty.

Why Legal Advice Often Matters Most in Financial Matters

The legal divorce itself is often straightforward.

The more important issue is often whether financial arrangements have been properly addressed, including:

• Property

• Pensions

• Maintenance

• Future claims

  
  

This is where legal advice usually has the greatest value.

Speak to Main Nickolls Family Law Solicitors

At Main Nickolls LLP, we provide clear, practical family law advice tailored to your circumstances.

Whether you need full legal representation or simply guidance on the parts of divorce that carry long-term financial consequences, our Family Law team can help you understand the most appropriate route forward.

We advise on:

• Divorce applications

• Financial settlements

• Consent Orders

• Child arrangements

• Property division

  
  

If you are unsure whether you need legal support during divorce, we are here to help you make informed decisions with confidence.