When going through a divorce, agreeing on how to divide finances is just one part of the process – formalising that agreement is another. The safest way to protect yourself is with a Consent Order, which makes your financial settlement legally binding. But how much should that cost?
In this guide, we explain how fixed fee Consent Orders work in the UK, what’s included in the price, who they’re suitable for and why they’re a smart option for many divorcing couples. You’ll also find out how to arrange a free 30-minute consultation with a solicitor for tailored advice.
What is a fixed fee Consent Order?
A fixed fee Consent Order is a service offered by many solicitors where you pay one clear, agreed price to have your financial agreement drafted and submitted to court. Instead of being charged by the hour, the entire process is handled for a set fee, giving you clarity and control over legal costs.
This option is ideal for couples who have already agreed on how to divide their assets and want that agreement to be legally binding.
What’s included in a fixed fee Consent Order?
Although the exact service may vary slightly between firms, a fixed fee Consent Order will usually include:
- A review of your financial agreement
- Drafting of the Consent Order using legal wording suitable for court approval
- Completion of the D81 Statement of Information form (setting out your financial details)
- Submission of all paperwork to the Family Court
- Managing communication with the court and keeping you updated on progress
Some services may also include light advice or checks to ensure the agreement is fair – but extensive negotiations or contested cases are usually not covered under a fixed fee.
What’s not included?
A fixed fee Consent Order typically does not include:
- Negotiating your financial settlement (if you haven’t agreed terms yet)
- Court hearings or representation
- Dealing with complex assets like overseas property or business interests
- Disputes or non-cooperative spouses
If your case becomes more complicated after you’ve started, your solicitor will let you know whether an additional fee or a different pricing model is required.
Who is a fixed fee Consent Order suitable for?
This type of service works best if:
- You and your ex-partner have already agreed how to divide finances
- You’re looking for a straightforward, cost-effective way to formalise the agreement
- You want to ensure the agreement is legally binding without the uncertainty of hourly rates
Even if your agreement is simple, it’s still important that it’s correctly drafted. Judges regularly reject poorly worded or unfair Consent Orders – even when both parties agree – so using a solicitor adds security.
Why do you need a Consent Order?
A Consent Order gives legal weight to your financial settlement. Without one:
- Your ex-partner can make future financial claims – even years after the divorce
- Your private agreement won’t be enforceable if one party breaks the terms
- You may remain financially linked, with no clean break
A fixed fee service ensures you can get this protection in place without worrying about escalating legal bills.
How much does a fixed fee Consent Order cost?
Prices vary depending on the solicitor and what’s included but you can typically expect to pay:
- Between £400 and £1,000 + VAT for a standard fixed fee service
This often works out far cheaper than hourly billing – particularly if your agreement is straightforward and cooperative.
Some firms also offer additional services (like pension sharing orders) at a separate fixed rate if needed.
What is the court process?
Once your Consent Order is drafted, it is submitted to the court along with:
- The D81 form (Statement of Information about both parties’ finances)
- The court fee (currently £53, unless you’re exempt based on income)
A judge will review the paperwork and, if satisfied that the agreement is fair, will approve and seal the order. You do not usually need to attend court for this – it’s a paper-based process.
Do you still need a solicitor for a simple agreement?
Yes – and here’s why:
- Judges often reject poorly drafted or unclear Consent Orders
- Legal advice ensures the agreement is balanced and enforceable
- A solicitor can ensure the order includes a clean break clause, preventing future claims
- Mistakes in paperwork can cause delays or additional costs
A fixed fee family law service ensures your order is prepared correctly the first time – and at a predictable cost.
Make your divorce agreement secure and stress-free
If you and your ex have reached a financial agreement, a fixed fee Consent Order is the simplest way to make it legally binding – and avoid future risks or surprises.
Arrange your free 30-minute consultation with one of our experienced divorce solicitors today. You can fill out the form below, call us on 0203 983 5080 or email [email protected]. Appointments are available via video call or at our offices in London (Harrow, Canary Wharf or Piccadilly Circus) or Manchester City Centre.
