How much does a divorce cost?

Our fixed-fee divorce starts from £750 plus VAT and the court fee (currently £593). The total cost depends on whether your divorce is straightforward or involves financial disputes. We confirm all costs in writing before any work begins — no hidden extras.

How long does a divorce take?

Under the no-fault divorce process, there is a minimum 20-week period from application to conditional order, then a further 6 weeks to final order. Most straightforward divorces complete in 6–9 months. Contested financial matters can take longer.

Do I need a solicitor for divorce?

You are not legally required to use a solicitor, but having specialist advice protects your interests — particularly regarding financial settlements, pensions and children. Many people who attempt DIY divorce encounter problems that cost more to fix later.

What happens to the house in a divorce?

The family home is typically the most significant asset in a divorce. Options include one party buying out the other, selling and dividing proceeds, or a deferred sale arrangement (often used where children are involved). We advise on the most appropriate arrangement for your circumstances.

How are pensions divided in a divorce?

Pensions are often the most valuable asset after the family home and must be considered in any financial settlement. Options include pension sharing (splitting the pension at source), pension offsetting (trading pension value against other assets) and pension attachment orders. We work with specialist pension actuaries where needed.

What is a consent order and do I need one?

A consent order is a court order that makes your financial agreement legally binding. Without one, either party can make financial claims against the other in the future — even after divorce. We strongly recommend obtaining a consent order to achieve a clean break.

Can I get legal aid for family law?

PDA Law does not accept legal aid cases. We are a private client practice and all family law matters are handled on a private fee basis. Legal aid for family law is in any event very limited in England and Wales — available only in cases involving domestic abuse or child protection, and subject to strict means testing. If you are seeking legal aid, please contact the Legal Aid Agency to find a registered provider. If you do not qualify for legal aid, we can discuss private funding options including Sears Tooth agreements and payment plans.

What is a child arrangements order?

A child arrangements order is a court order that sets out where a child lives and how much time they spend with each parent. Courts always prioritise the best interests of the child. We encourage mediation as a first step, but can represent you in court proceedings where necessary.

Happy family at home — conveying resolution and a fresh start after family law proceedings

Family Law Specialists

Family Law Solicitors Chester & Cheshire

Expert divorce, children, and financial settlement advice from experienced solicitors. Fixed-fee options from £750. Rated 4.8★ on Google.

Call 01244 757352 Free Consultation

PDA Law is a Chester-based family law firm with 25+ years of experience handling divorce, financial settlements, children matters, and domestic abuse cases. Our solicitors specialise in no-fault divorce (from £750 fixed fee), complex pension sharing, property disputes, and child arrangements. We serve clients across Chester, Cheshire, North Wales, Wirral, and Ellesmere Port. With a 4.8★ Google rating from 374+ verified reviews, we're known for clear advice, transparent pricing, and accessible expertise. Whether you need a straightforward uncontested divorce or representation in contested financial proceedings, we guide you through every step — from application to final order.

25+ Years Experience

Established 2001. Hundreds of family law cases resolved.

4.8★ Google Rating

374+ verified client reviews. Trusted by families across the region.

Fixed-Fee Options

Divorce from £750. Transparent pricing. No hidden costs.

Family Law Services

How We Can Help You

Select the area most relevant to your situation, or call us to discuss which service is right for you.

Divorce

No-fault divorce from £750 fixed fee. We guide you through every step clearly and efficiently.

Family Law Solicitors Chester & Cheshire

How We Can Help You

Divorce

Children & Child Arrangements

Child Arrangements Orders

Financial Settlements

Property Settlements

What Happens to the House?

Pension Sharing

Maintenance & Income

Consent Orders

Clean Break Financial Orders

Spousal Maintenance Guide

Spousal Maintenance Calculator

Amicable Divorce Costs

Freezing Orders in Divorce

Grey Divorce / Divorce Over 50

Divorce After Short Marriage

Separation Agreements

Cohabitation Rights

TOLATA Claims

Cohabitation Agreements

Cohabitation Disputes

Non-Molestation & Occupation Orders

Domestic Abuse & Injunctions

Prohibited Steps & Specific Issue Orders

Grandparents' Rights

Child Maintenance Guide

Special Guardianship Orders

International Child Abduction

Prenuptial & Postnuptial Agreements

Transfers of Property

Funding Your Legal Fees

Legal Separation Guide

Mediation vs Litigation

Family Law FAQs Chester

Family Law Solicitors Wrexham

Family Law Solicitors Ellesmere Port

Family Law Solicitors Wirral

What Our Clients Say

Martin Dias

Frequently Asked Questions

Family Law Explained

Family Law: Divorce, Children & Financial Settlements

What Our Clients Say

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Martin Dias

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Related Practice Areas

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Wills & Probate

Court of Protection

Dispute Resolution

Lasting Power of Attorney

Domestic Abuse Support