Is it true that the first session with a divorce solicitor is often free?

[meltedmarsbars]

Or am I misremembering that?

and how much does a divorce cost?

the first half hour is free usually. You can find a legal aid calculator online to see if you qualify for help...

are there complications (kids, assets, arguments?) or is it potentially "simple"?

yes all reputable family law firms offer this
it's worth going with a mental if not written list of q's beforehand.
cost of divorce isn't always straightforward tbh even if you are working p/t on low wages.
ime legal aid is a myth they will get it back somehow.
if you can, keep solicitors to a minimum and opt for mediation to sort out the nitty gritty which will draw up what will be the consent order and recognised in court.
if you're on low wage/unemployed you will not have to pay and iirc there is a rising scale based on income otherwise.
best of luck...tis crap!

If you go to the CAB, they will give you a list of solicitora in your area that offer a free first half hour. Not all of them do.

I have just started my divorce but went with a solicitor in the end that was recommended by a friend.

The solicitor did try to do it using legal aid as I only work 20 hrs a week but as h is still paying mortgage we didn't want to rock the boat and I am now paying.

The cost is dependant on whether you think your h will contest anything. If he does and it ges to court it could be expensive. If you think he will agree to what you want then it could be less than £1k

Thanks for your replies folks.

Lewisfan, yes, there are complications - house, kids, the OW, a failing business....

Sounds like the CAB for first call and then look for local recommendations for Family Law specialists.

Its not for me, its for a very dear friend, and its all very traumatic

aseriouslyblondemoment - how does the mediation thing work? How do you fnd them?