JPreedy Solicitors

Family Law Fee Structure

Transparent Legal Fees, Tailored to Your Needs.

At J. Preedy Solicitors, we are committed to providing clear, competitive, and straightforward pricing. Whether you’re looking for expert advice on family, business, or niche fashion law, our fees are designed with your needs in mind.

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Family Law Fee Structure

Hourly Rates

Family law solicitors in the UK often charge on an hourly basis. The rates can vary significantly depending on the solicitor’s experience, the firm’s location, and the complexity of the case. Here’s a general breakdown of hourly rates

Trainee Solicitor

£150/hour + VAT

Solicitor

£200–£350/hour + VAT

Senior Solicitor or Partner

£350 – £600/hour + VAT

Fixed Fees

Some family law matters can be handled on a fixed-fee basis. This is common for straightforward cases, such as

  • Divorce Proceedings: Fixed fees typically range from £500 to £1,500, depending on the complexity.
  • Separation Agreements: Costs can range from £300 to £1,000.
  • Child Arrangement Orders: Fixed fees might range from £750 to £2,000.

Retainer Agreements

In more complex cases, solicitors may require a retainer. This means that clients pay an upfront fee to secure the solicitor’s services, with additional costs charged against this retainer as the work progresses.

Disbursements

  1. In addition to solicitor fees, clients should expect additional costs, known as disbursements, which may include:

    • Court Fees: Ranging from £255 to £550, depending on the type of application.
    • Expert Fees: Such as social workers or child psychologists, which can range from £500 to £2,000.
    • Mediation Fees: Typically around £100 – £200 per session, with several sessions often needed.

Estimated Total Costs

Here are some estimated total costs for common family law matters:

Divorce

£1,000 - £20,000, depending on complexity and contested issues.

Child Custody Disputes:

£3,000 - £15,000, particularly if contested in court.

Financial Settlements

£1,500 - £50,000+, depending on the size of the assets and level of contention.

Legal Aid

In some cases, legal aid may be available for family law matters, particularly for domestic violence cases or when children’s welfare is at risk. Eligibility depends on various factors, including income and the nature of the legal issue.

Additional Considerations

  • Initial Consultation: Many solicitors offer a free or low-cost initial consultation, where you can discuss your case and get an idea of potential costs.
  • Payment Plans: Some firms offer payment plans or arrangements to help manage costs.

Family law fees can vary widely based on the complexity of the case and the solicitor’s experience. It’s essential to discuss costs upfront and consider all potential expenses, including disbursements. For more detailed information and tailored advice, consulting directly with a family law solicitor is advisable.

For further reading on family law fees and other resources, you may refer to:

  • The Law Society
  • Resolution – A national organization of family lawyers committed to a non-confrontational approach to family law issues.