Getting divorced, do I need a solicitor?

[ImFree2doasiwant]

Just for the divorce I mean. Stbx has just told me to expect the petition through in the next week or so. Fine, we've been seperated over 2 years. I don't have spare cash sitting around though.

I know I'll need one for the financial side, (joint mortgage, 2 children) but do I need one to respond to this petition, or can I do it myself.

YES, immediately! There are SO many complex issues, and a solicitor is vital to ensure you're not financially screwed over (stimuff like pensions etc.)

@40HavelockVetinari after I spoke to a solicitor a few months ago, I got the impression that the divorce and the financial settlement were 2 seperate issues. I know I need a solicitor for the financial side.

Get some free consultations but you can do your divorce online

No - you just fill it in online and press enter. (Check he's not asking you to pay costs first. He should have paid the £500ish cost). Then the decree nisi comes out.

Made assumptions about gender based on my own experience sorry.

@PicaK thank you. So I should be able to save some money there. But in the meantime consult a solicitor over the financial side.

And no, you're right. He's a he and I'm not.

I think as much prep as you can do yourself helps. Wikivorce and the Gov website give you a good idea of what financial info you need to declare (and to have a rough idea about for your stbexh's position).