Yes, it is entirely possible to manage your own divorce without a solicitor in England and Wales. The introduction of the online divorce portal and no-fault divorce in 2022 have made the process considerably more accessible. However, possible does not always mean advisable.
What you can do yourself
- Apply for divorce online via the HMCTS divorce portal
- Apply for conditional order and final order
- Negotiate financial arrangements directly with your ex
- Complete your own Form E
- Attend court hearings as a self-representing party (litigant in person)
- Draft a Consent Order (though care is needed here)
Where legal advice is strongly advisable
- Reviewing any financial proposal before accepting it
- Drafting or reviewing a Consent Order
- Cases involving complex assets, businesses or pensions
- Where there are concerns about non-disclosure
- Any contested hearing
Practical support alongside self-representation
The Separation Companion is designed precisely for those managing their own divorce, providing practical support, help with paperwork and McKenzie Friend court attendance, at a fraction of solicitor costs.
Frequently asked questions
How much does it cost to divorce without a solicitor?
The court fee for a divorce application is currently £593. If you manage the process yourself, this is the main cost, plus any support services you choose to use.