Family law advice - how much will it cost?

We will tell you in advance how much your case is likely to cost and in many circumstances can agree a fixed fee with you.

Set out below are the options for your first meeting with one of our expert family lawyers.

Video calls
All of our specialists are happy to meet clients via video call, including for initial meetings, so if you would prefer this approach don’t hesitate to say.

A free 30 minute meeting
An initial meeting with one of our family law specialists to identify your options, possible solutions and discuss costs. This approach might suit you if you wish to test the water before making a decision about whether to use our services. We recognise that it is vital you are comfortable with the family lawyer you instruct. One of our experts will usually speak to you over the telephone before a meeting is arranged.

Fixed fee family law initial appointment
Sometimes attempting to talk through the issues at a short meeting is difficult or impossible and you might want us to confirm our advice in writing. We therefore offer a detailed initial meeting for £150 including VAT, followed by a letter setting out our advice. Our only condition in relation to this option is that your legal proceedings have not already started. 

Thereafter should you wish to continue instructing us this would be done on an hourly rate basis. This will be confirmed to you following our meeting.

Unbundled legal services
Some clients wish to be able to switch between navigating their own way through separation and getting legal advice, and this is called unbundling. You would lead on matters rather than us and we would ‘act in the background’ when you ask us to. There are disadvantages and risks to this approach and we recommend that you consult us about your circumstances before making a decision.

Unbundled services allow you to stay very strictly in control of the cost. They enable us to deliver family legal services according to the needs of clients working to tight budgets; people who might otherwise go without access to legal advice.

If you ask us for an unbundled service you would involve us in limited specific tasks such as reviewing or drafting documents, or helping you negotiate or prepare for court hearings. You might also ask us to give a second opinion, represent you at court or help you represent yourself, for example.

Legal Aid for public and private children law and other public law family matters
We are contracted with the Legal Aid Agency, which means that if you are eligible to apply, you are eligible financially and you have a reasonable case, you might be eligible for legal aid, which would fund your family law case. Such funding might be entirely free, subject to either a recurring monthly contribution or a one off capital payment, or you might have to pay all of your funding back at the end of the case. Please view our Legal Aid page for further information.

Our family lawyers are widely known for their experience and expertise. Please call our Margate office on 01843 234000 to make an appointment or ask any questions. Alternatively, contact us using our online enquiry form.