Five years of separation does not make divorce free. This guide focuses on England and Wales, where the current no-fault process and court-fee rules apply; Scotland and Northern Ireland have different procedures.
This journey can be hard, but remember, you're not alone.
In this guide, we’ll talk about:
- If it’s possible to get a free divorce after 5 years
- How to save money on divorce fees
- How easy it is to divorce after 5 years of separation
- Worries about divorce finances.
Budget separately for the divorce application, financial arrangements, professional help and changes to living costs. A historic UK-wide average from 2018 is not a current quotation for your case.
Don’t worry, our team has a deep understanding of divorce costs. We’re here to help you.
How to save money on divorce fees
How to save money on divorce fees
Divorces are hard to handle, but the financial repercussions can make a bad situation feel even worse.
The solution? Understanding your next steps and exactly how much they’ll cost.
For only £5, JustAnswer offers a trial chat with an experienced divorce solicitor. They can help you navigate the process and save you from costly face-to-face lawyer fees.
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Can I get a free divorce after 5 years?
No, you cannot get a free divorce because you have been together or separated for five years.
Help with Fees can reduce or remove a court fee if the relevant income, savings and benefit rules are met. It is separate from legal aid for professional advice or representation; neither automatically covers every divorce cost.
How easy is it to divorce after 5 years of separation?
Eligibility, service of the application and any financial issues still need to be addressed. Being separated for five years does not bypass the process.
In England and Wales, no-fault divorce has applied since 6 April 2022. You normally wait at least 20 weeks from issue before applying for a conditional order, then at least six weeks and one day before applying for the final order. Processing, service or other issues can make it take longer.
You can apply for a no-fault divorce jointly or on your own.
You might need to apply for the divorce alone if you have been separated for five years and cannot contact or locate your spouse.
You’ll be required to show the court that you have done everything possible to notify your spouse that you’re applying for a divorce.
You might need to serve them papers using professional service. Or if you don’t know where they live, you might need to show the court all the different ways you tried to locate them.
Worried About Divorce Finances?
Divorce can be complicated, especially when it comes to navigating the cost. One small error could lead to serious consequences.
But, the support of a good solicitor can help you to understand your next steps.
For a £5 trial, JustAnswer’s online divorce solicitors can help you understand your rights and guide you towards the best financial solution for you.
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Uncontested divorce vs contested divorce
An uncontested divorce is when both people agree to a divorce.
An undisputed application often proceeds without attendance at a hearing, but it still requires court orders and the statutory waiting periods. Four to six weeks is not a reliable estimate for completing the divorce.
In England and Wales, a spouse cannot dispute the statement of irretrievable breakdown simply because they oppose divorce. Limited legal challenges, such as jurisdiction or the validity of the marriage, can still arise.
Agreement about ending the marriage does not necessarily mean agreement about finances, pensions or children.
A forum account describes one person’s experience and does not establish the procedure, cost or result in another case. See related guidance.
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Planning the cost of divorce
The overall cost depends on which court fees, professional services and related living expenses apply to you. See related guidance.
Separate the legal process from the cost of running two households.
Child maintenance, moving and accommodation can affect the post-separation budget, but they are not all fees for obtaining a divorce order.
It doesn’t just account for the cost of getting the divorce approved!
Here’s a quick table that provides a concise breakdown of the various costs associated with divorce.
| Category | Costs |
|---|---|
| Court Fees |
Filing for Divorce: £628 application fee in England and Wales, according to GOV.UK checked 4 October 2026. Fee help may be available; check current fees before applying. Additional Applications: Financial orders or child arrangements. |
| Legal representation | Solicitors may charge fixed fees or hourly rates. Obtain a written quote showing VAT, included work and additional charges; costs depend on the case and provider. |
| Barrister Fees | For cases that go to court or require specialised legal advice. The cost of this will be completely dependent on your case and preferences. |
| Financial Advisor or Accountant Fees | For cases involving complex financial matters. The cost of this will be completely dependent on your case and preferences. |
| Valuation Fees | You may need to pay for property, business, or pension valuations as part of the financial settlement. The cost of this will be completely dependent on your case and preferences. |
| Out-of-Court Options | Mediation, collaborative law and arbitration have different charging structures. Ask for a written estimate and check eligibility for legal aid or any current mediation support scheme. |
| Indirect Costs | Time off work to attend court hearings or meetings with solicitors. Child maintenance costs. |
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So, what is the real cost of a UK divorce?
An application made without professional representation can avoid solicitor fees for that step, but the court fee and any separate financial-order work still need to be considered.
Solicitor and other professional charges vary. Ask for a written estimate showing VAT, the work included and possible extra costs. A quote for the divorce application may exclude financial negotiations, pensions, children or contested hearings.
However, since the introduction of no-fault divorces, many cheaper online divorce services exist, and some legal firms offer lower fixed prices. Always do your research before choosing a service.
You could also apply for the divorce online yourself without using a solicitor.
A DIY divorce may be an option if you’re confident about filling out the application form by yourself and are experiencing an amicable and mature split with your spouse.
In England and Wales, the divorce application fee is £628 according to HMCTS fees checked on 4 October 2026. This is one fee for the application, including a joint application. Check the current schedule before applying.
The court makes a financial order. A solicitor can advise on and draft an agreed consent order or represent you in disputed proceedings. The HMCTS application fees checked on 4 October 2026 are £62 for a consent financial order and £321 for a financial order other than by consent, in addition to professional costs. See related guidance.
Obtain a separate quote for resolving finances and drafting or applying for any financial order. There is no universal starting price that covers every case.
Divorce Doesn’t Mean Financial Ruin
Legal advice can make all the difference when navigating the financial aspects of divorce, and affordable help is within reach.
Normally, the cheapest solicitors in the UK will put you back at least £130 per hour.
But, for a £5 trial, a divorce solicitor from JustAnswer can review your situation and provide personalised guidance. It’s a no-brainer!
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