Going solo?
Post written by a retired family law solicitor advocate
More people are choosing to go it alone in the family court.
Some do it because they cannot afford a solicitor. Some because they have lost trust in the system. Others because they want control, clarity, and a say in how their case is run. Whatever the reason, representing yourself is no longer unusual. It is common. And it is not a sign of weakness.
Going solo is a strategic choice. But it only works if you understand what you are taking on.
Why people go solo
The cost of legal representation is the obvious driver. Full representation in divorce or financial remedy proceedings can easily run into tens of thousands of pounds. For many, that is simply not realistic.
But cost is not the whole story.
Why get divorced?
Divorce can occur for a variety of reasons, including:
Communication Issues: Constant misunderstandings and lack of effective communication can lead to frustration and conflict.
Infidelity: Betrayal through cheating can destroy trust and intimacy in a relationship.
Financial Problems: Disagreements about money management or financial stress can strain a marriage.
Loss of Intimacy: A decline in emotional and physical intimacy can create feelings of disconnection.
How to choose a divorce lawyer
Don’t Just Hire the First Name You Find
Choosing the right solicitor can shape the course of your divorce...
legally, financially, and emotionally.
It's not just about credentials.
It's about trust, strategy, and alignment.
You need someone who understands the legal landscape, but also your priorities.
Here are the questions you must ask before instructing anyone.
Don’t be shy...
you’re hiring them, not the other way around.