DIY divorces have become more popular in the UK, especially after the introduction of no-fault divorce laws in April 2022. This shift has allowed couples to manage their divorce applications with minimal legal help, often opting for online platforms. While DIY divorces offer clear advantages, there are some important downsides to consider before choosing this route.

What is a DIY Divorce?

A DIY divorce is when individuals handle their divorce proceedings independently without involving solicitors. This includes filling out the necessary forms, submitting applications to the court, and managing financial settlements independently. Many people are choosing this option to avoid high legal fees, with some estimates showing nearly half of divorcing couples now opting for a DIY approach.

The Benefits of DIY Divorces

Cost-Effective Solution
The biggest draw for many couples is the cost-saving potential. Divorce solicitors can charge significant fees, but with a DIY divorce, the only mandatory expense is the court fee, which currently stands at £593. This can be a significant saving, particularly for those already facing financial strain.

Control and Flexibility
A DIY divorce allows individuals to move at their own pace. This level of control is especially beneficial for couples on good terms and can agree on most issues. Without relying on solicitors, they can choose when to file documents and how to handle the proceedings, making the process less stressful.

Simplicity in Certain Cases
For couples without children or shared assets, a DIY divorce can be relatively straightforward. If both parties agree and there are no complicated financial matters to address, handling the paperwork and court process independently can be manageable.

Easy Accessibility
With the rise of online divorce services, the process has become more accessible. Individuals can file applications and handle most of the process from their homes, making it easier for those who prefer to avoid in-person visits to solicitors.

The Drawbacks of DIY Divorces

Lack of Legal Safeguards
While a DIY divorce might seem easy, it comes with risks, particularly regarding financial settlements. Without formal agreements, one party might make financial claims against the other later. This could lead to disputes and instability in the future. It’s crucial to make sure financial arrangements are properly addressed, ideally with the help of a solicitor.

Complex Financial Issues
Even seemingly simple divorces can involve complex financial matters that are hard to navigate. Dividing pensions and property or arranging child maintenance can be tricky without professional advice. If these issues aren’t carefully considered, it could lead to long-term consequences for both parties.

Risk of Mistakes
One of the risks of handling a divorce without legal help is the potential for mistakes. Filling out legal forms incorrectly or missing important steps can cause delays, adding unnecessary stress to an already difficult time. Errors in the paperwork could also lead to additional costs to fix the issues.

Emotional Strain
Divorce is already an emotionally taxing experience, and doing it without the support of legal representation can make it even harder. Without professional guidance, individuals may feel unsupported throughout the process, especially if there are unresolved issues between spouses.

Future Re-Marriage Risks
Another risk is that individuals might make it harder to address future claims if they remarry before finalising financial settlements. This “re-marriage trap” can prevent someone from making future claims against their ex-spouse, potentially complicating matters down the line.

Final Thoughts

The rise of DIY divorces reflects the increasing demand for more affordable and accessible options to end a marriage. While they offer clear benefits, such as lower costs and greater control, they also come with significant risks—particularly regarding financial protection and potential errors. Anyone considering a DIY divorce should seek initial legal advice to understand the full scope of what needs to be addressed before proceeding.