Do I need to get a consent order?

[iamnotwhat]

I applied to divorce my husband a few months ago. I've been doing it all myself as I couldn't afford a solicitor - and the forms were straightforward as it's a clear cut case of adultery that my husband said he wouldn't contest.

The DN will be pronounced next month. My question is - do I need to get a consent order? Things have been agreed "amicably" so far, but I don't want to find things get difficult in the future (when he finally realises that I'm not going to change my mind).

We have children. He pays some child maintenance - but he did try to refuse to pay it a few months ago when he failed to persuade me into delaying divorce proceedings (which has made me a little wary).

I don't really understand consent orders - they seem to make my head go fuzzy whenever I google them!

I'd be very grateful for any advice...

What is a consent order (in easy terms!)? Do I need one? How much will it cost to get one (approx)?

Thank you in advance

Yes, you do need a consent order. It will set out the terms of the financial settlement that you have agreed with him. If there is no consent order either of you could make a financial claim against the other in future. You may think it wouldn't happen but can you be sure he wouldn't lodge a claim if he found that you'd won the lottery or come into a large inheritance?

Thanks prh47. Much appreciated

Babybarrister - thank you. I've just had a look and to be honest I'm shocked. The thought of someone doing that to someone they once loved. Makes me shudder.

I guess I'd better find a solicitor soon!

I hate that I'm having to pay to end the relationship and sort out all the loose ends, when the breakdown of our marriage was not my fault. Best get it sorted properly though...

Thanks again

I got a consent order without a solicitor, I asked for a fdr meeting with the court, and infront of the judge we discussed everything, and it was written by the judge.
I did write a email to my xh stating how I felt the assets should be shared before the hearing, and this was pretty much what was agreed on.
You can do it on your own, just know what you are initialled to, I did this with a free 30 min appointment with a solicitor.

Thanks wearymum73, that's good to know