Amicable (ish) split but still need a solicitor?

[twomanycats]

hello,

My husband left pretty much 3 months ago and he's pressing me for 'what percentage' I want from the house split (he's in rented). I'm struggling to decide (I'd buy him out if I could but on my PT wage I can't get a big enough mortgage) and although we're being pretty amicable I think my only route is a solicitor. I've had a free half hour and I'm wondering how much it will be to sort out a financial separation? The solicitor couldn't give me a guestimate but at £160/hr and £16/letter I'm worried if I go down that route I could be paying £1000s. They said they would need to ask for a full disclosure of all assets too which I'm nervous about as it will just get his back up!

I've pretty much decided to ask for 60% of all assets as our children will be staying with me 5-6 out of 7 nights.

I'm feeling pressured but also in need to get things sorted out before applying for schools in September, Christmas etc..

Would people suggest that a solicitor is the best way to go despite the costs? I was thinking if it could all get sorted - financial split from house sale for £500 ish that it would be worth it....
My pals say definitely but they've not been through it. I think I know I have to but am nervous about peeing ex off and the costs to bare.

Thanks for listening

Cheers all for the fab and quick replies - I'm chuffed that you've taken the time to care and it's given me a mega boost.

I'm looking (he agrees) at getting 80% of house sale and keeping my pension and ISA so hopefully £100k to use for a deposit/cash after fees. From what you've all said that figure looks more than fair?

Yes in my 30s but only 2 years to spare before I'm not haha! Yep new job time at some point very soon...good reminder.

Life hey peeps - I hope you're all heading for a good/chilled weekend.

If you can cover the mortgage then technically you can stay in the house until the kids are 18 if you get the right court order. He would just pay maintenance my brother did this. However it gets over turned of his ex moves someone else in

It seems fair to me.
I guess you'd know if he was hiding a stash of gold somewhere...

The assets seem about right for Mr+Mrs Average-30s-UK. Most people under 50 have less lucrative pensions these days - DC rather than DC. And less equity in their houses - thank god you did not just have an IO mortgage!

Look into keeping the house. It might be possible to avoid moving - less hassle if you can.

Definitely a solicitor, i had no idea a divorce cost this much! I am in a similar position, Part time same aged children, trying to stay amicable. It wasn't my decision.Divorce hasn't been mentioned yet but we are in the process of sorting the finances out. I am hoping to stay in the home with matinence to cover the mortgage. Good Luck.