Family Law Services Fees

Factors That May Add Complexity to Family Law Cases

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Amending Claims or Providing Further Information

Example: If additional financial details are discovered during divorce proceedings, amending the claim or providing updated financial information (e.g., assets, pensions) can increase legal work and court appearances, leading to higher costs.

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Adding New Claims or Parties to Proceedings

Example: Introducing additional claims, such as disputes over international property or business interests, or involving new parties, like extended family members in child arrangement cases, can complicate proceedings.

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Factual Disputes about Financial Matters

Example: Disagreements over the valuation of assets, such as the family home or business interests, or disputes over hidden or overseas assets, often require expert evidence, increasing the complexity of financial settlements.

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Making or Defending Applications During Proceedings

Example: If urgent applications are needed (e.g., a freezing order to prevent asset dissipation), or defending such applications made by the opposing party, this adds to the intricacy of the case.

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Complex Preliminary Issues

Example: Jurisdictional issues may arise, especially in international divorces or child custody disputes, requiring legal arguments to establish whether UK courts have authority to hear the case.

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Making or Defending a Costs Application

Example: If one party seeks to recover legal costs from the other (e.g., for unreasonable conduct during proceedings), this introduces additional legal arguments and potentially protracted negotiations.

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Volume and Quality of Evidence Available

Example: Complex cases may involve large volumes of documentary evidence (financial records, property deeds) or require expert reports (property valuations, psychological assessments in child custody cases), complicating case preparation.

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Number of Witnesses

Example: In child custody disputes, multiple witnesses, including teachers, social workers, or psychologists, may be called to testify about the best interests of the child. Each witness adds to the length and complexity of the trial.

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Disclosure Issues

Example: Problems related to disclosing documents (e.g., one party refusing to provide full financial disclosure) or arguments over the admissibility of certain documents can significantly delay proceedings.

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All fees above do not include court fees, barrister fees, travel fees and other related expenses.