Do I need a solicitor for an amicable divorce?

Do I need a solicitor for an amicable divorce?

You do not legally need a solicitor for an amicable divorce, but legal advice is strongly recommended to protect both parties and secure a clean break.

An amicable divorce simply means both spouses agree on the outcome. It does not reduce the legal risks involved. Informal agreements, even when fair and well-intentioned, are not legally binding unless the court approves a financial order.

This means either party can make future financial claims, sometimes years after the divorce has been finalised.

A solicitor’s role in an amicable divorce is not to create conflict, but to formalise an agreement. Consider an online divorce, which is cheaper and more hassle-free than hiring solicitors.

Solicitors ensure full financial disclosure, assess fairness, and convert informal agreements into a court-approved consent order. This provides certainty and prevents future claims against income, property, pensions, or inheritance.

Solicitors are particularly important where pensions, property, or unequal incomes are involved. Pensions are frequently overlooked in amicable divorces and can represent one of the most valuable assets.

Without legal advice, one party may unknowingly give up long-term financial security.

Using a solicitor does not mean the divorce becomes adversarial or expensive.

Many solicitors specialise in amicable and fixed-fee divorce support. Their involvement often shortens the process, reduces stress, and ensures the divorce achieves full legal and financial finality, rather than simply ending the marriage on paper.