Divorce & Separation

Separation can feel like uncharted territory – stressful, emotional, and full of tough decisions. That’s why our experienced solicitors for divorce and separation are here to guide you through the process with care and clarity.

Talk to one of our friendly and experienced team on 01442 872311

Why choose our divorce solicitors?

At Machins Solicitors, we don’t just offer legal expertise — we bring a personal touch to everything we do. Recognised as a ‘Top Tier’ family law firm by the prestigious Legal 500 directory, we’re proud of the trust our clients place in us and the results we deliver.

But it’s not just about accolades. We understand that every situation is different, and we tailor our advice to your specific circumstances. You’ll get clear, practical guidance delivered with compassion and a focus on making things easier for you.

Our clients often tell us how much they value our approach, and their testimonials say it all. We’re here to provide both reassurance and results, helping you move forward with confidence during what can be a difficult time.

Whether it’s legal proceedings, financial agreements, or child arrangements, we’re by your side every step of the way. You don’t have to face it alone.

Family enjoying a day at the beach, representing Family Law Solicitors Luton and Berkhamsted

Home » Individual Legal Services » Family, Children & Separation » Divorce & Separation

Are you starting divorce proceedings?

If you’re ready to begin, you’ll be referred to as the applicant. This means you’ll need to submit the divorce application, a task that can feel daunting on top of everything else you’re dealing with. That’s where we can help.

Our experienced divorce solicitors are here to take the pressure off. We’ll handle the paperwork and guide you through the process from start to finish, so you can focus on what matters most, moving forward with your life. With our fixed-fee service, you’ll have one less thing to worry about. You will need to have been married for one year before you can start the process of applying for a divorce.

Are you responding to divorce proceedings?

If your spouse has already started divorce proceedings, you’ll be the respondent. As the respondent, you’ll receive a copy of the divorce application once the court issues it. It’s normal to feel unsure about what to do next, but we’re here to guide you through every step. Our team offers transparent pricing and compassionate support, so you’ll always know what to expect.

Do you want to apply together for your divorce?

It’s now possible for couples who both agree to divorce and want to work amicably to resolve their separation to apply jointly for a divorce. In these circumstances, the Court fee is usually shared equally and you’ll be known as applicant 1 and applicant 2 in the process. Our costs will be the same as our Fixed Fee Divorce for Applicants if you choose to apply jointly with your ex-partner.

Ready to start your divorce?

Our secure online tool can be completed at a time that suits you and helps you assess your situation and understand the next steps. By providing key information in advance, you’ll save valuable time, allowing us to focus on the core issues and outcomes when we meet.

Your information is fully confidential and securely stored.

Click the button below to begin, or if you prefer, you can call us on 01442 872311.

Useful Information

Price and Service Information for Family, Children & Divorce Why Choose Us? Contact Us Our Prices

Frequently asked questions

Yes, it’s possible to apply for a divorce without a solicitor. However, having professional legal advice can make a big difference, particularly when it comes to understanding your rights and responsibilities, especially if there are financial or child-related issues to resolve. A solicitor can help ensure that nothing important is overlooked.

We’re here to take the weight off your shoulders, guiding you through the process step by step. From avoiding common mistakes to keeping stress to a minimum, we’ll make sure everything is handled properly and that the outcome works in your best interests.

The cost of a divorce can vary depending on your circumstances, but we offer fixed-fee pricing for uncontested divorces to keep things clear and manageable.

Fixed Fee Divorce for Applicants

Our fee: From £650 + VAT
Court fee: £593 (payable upfront)

If you’re on a low income, you may be eligible for court fee reductions or exemptions. You can check your eligibility on the GOV.uk website, or reach out to us for guidance – we’re happy to help.

Fixed Fee Divorce for Respondents

Our fee: From £425 + VAT
Court fee: None (as the Applicant pays this fee)

These fixed fees cover the legal process of ending your marriage. If you need assistance with financial settlements, dividing assets, or child arrangements, additional costs will apply depending on the complexity of your case.

Our transparent pricing means there won’t be any hidden surprises but we do need to get to know you and your circumstances to provide further details on your likely costs. Get in touch with us, and we’ll provide a full breakdown of estimated costs tailored to your case, so you’ll know exactly what to expect.

Unfortunately there is no set rule on how long a divorce will take and it depends completely on how straightforward your case is. If you and your ex-partner agree on everything, the process is usually quicker. For an uncontested divorce in England and Wales, it typically takes 6 to 12 months. If there are disputes, it might take longer. Either way, we’ll be there to guide you, so you know what to expect at each stage.

A divorce solicitor is there to guide you through every aspect of the divorce process. They’ll provide expert advice on everything from filing your application to handling finances, dividing assets, and making arrangements for your children. It’s about having someone in your corner to make sure your best interests are protected, and the process runs smoothly.

Divorce doesn’t have to be about winners and losers. Ideally it’s about finding a solution that works for everyone, especially if children are involved. A constructive and fair approach is always the best way forward, especially if you want to minimise legal costs. We’ll work with you to focus on what matters most, ensuring your rights are protected and helping you achieve an outcome that feels right for your future.

Sorting out finances during a divorce can feel overwhelming — property, savings, pensions… there’s a lot to think about. But it doesn’t have to be daunting. A solicitor can help you negotiate a fair agreement, whether that’s through mediation, direct discussions, or, if needed, court proceedings or arbitration. Getting clear advice from the start can save you time, money, and worry in the long run.

Judicial separation and annulment: alternatives to divorce

If divorce isn’t appropriate for religious or financial reasons, you may consider a judicial separation. This is a formal court process that legally separates you while allowing financial orders (except pension sharing) to be applied for.

Key differences between judicial separation and divorce:

A judicial separation does not end the marriage, while divorce does.
Pension sharing orders are not available with judicial separation.
A clean break isn’t possible with judicial separation.
You don’t have to wait one year after the date of marriage before applying.

In some cases, an annulment may be possible. A marriage annulment is a legal process that declares a marriage null and void, meaning it’s treated as though it never legally existed. Unlike divorce, which ends a valid marriage, annulments are only granted in specific situations where the marriage is considered invalid from the start. You also don’t need to be married for a year to start the annulment process.

Our team can advise you on whether an annulment, a judicial separation or a divorce is the best choice for your circumstances.

To apply for a judicial separation, the process is similar to that of divorce, but there is only one order of judicial separation and the parties remain legally married at the end.

To annul a marriage, you need to meet specific legal grounds, such as lack of consent, non-consummation, or another factor that makes the marriage invalid. Once you meet the criteria, you’ll submit an annulment application to the court, along with evidence supporting your case.