How to keep my legal costs as low as possible?

[mpuddleduck]

I have booked an appointment to see a solicitor re splitting with my xdh, he moved out last April and has been living away.
Before we split we sold our house and were living in rented accommodation so we have money in the bank, not much, but just enough to stop me being eligable for legal aid.
I only work part time and x hasn't paid anything towards the children since he left so Iam really worried about the cost of seeking legal advice, any advice on how to keep the costs down would be appreciated.

If you haven't done so already, you should contact the CSA and get them to collect child maintenance. However, it may be a while before any money comes through, especially if he is obstructive.

If the final financial settlement involves your ex paying you some money, your costs will come out of that.

The best way to keep costs low is to agree as much as possible between you. If your solicitors negotiate for you or, even worse, you end up going to court that will significantly increase your costs.

When a solicitor is used my tips would be to use them efficiently. Do your homework to educate yourself, make lists of the salient points to be discussed, gather documents and file them plus copies so that they can be produced in a timely manner when required. Keep communications concise and to the point and avoid using a solicitor for emotional support - they aren't trained for it and a counselor is considerably cheaper.

prh47 and STIDW - are you family lawyers by any chance as you are so knowledgeable. Would you be able to recommend any solicitors for me in the London area or possibly look into my case for me please

Thank you

Mimiso

I advise my clients to prepare by having a full spreadsheet of the assets, income and expenses. You can also insist on writing the statement for your divorce petition yourself. Also, ask that your lawyer absolutely limit all communications to essential only.

The best way to find a good family lawyer is to use the Resolution website.

Best regards