High Court judge calls for a cap on costs after a divorcing couple incur costs of almost £1 millions in contested financial proceedings

In the matter of J v J [2014] almost 32% of the couples' assets were spent on costs.

Although one might argue there were reasons to justify this, it has led to the High Court stating that; "a litigant should be able to demand a fixed price for each of three phases of a case." On this basis clients may secure better outcomes by feeling confident employing a lawyer rather than being self-represented.

It has long been our policy to offer fixed fees for the three phases of a financial case namely: -

1. Form A to First Appointment

2. First Appointment to FDR

3. FDR to trial

However, offering such a cost-effective service to clients requires both parties' lawyers to "buy in" to the commitment to their clients as far as costs are concerned. Otherwise, there is a danger of the escalating costs of one party still being paid out of the matrimonial assets – thereby depleting the assets available for distribution between the couple.

Please feel free to contact us for further information in respect of fixed fees.