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Ultimate Guide to Prenuptial Agreements
01.
What Is a Prenuptial Agreement?
Chapters
Chapter 5
How Much Does a Prenup Cost?
Many couples wonder how much it costs to get a prenuptial agreement (prenup) in the UK.
While prenups might seem complicated, the process can be straightforward with the right advice.
A prenup is designed to protect both partners and clarify how assets and debts will be divided in the event of a divorce.
This guide explains the typical costs involved, whether you use a solicitor or an online service, and how costs vary depending on where you live.
How Much Does a Prenup Solicitor Cost?
Hiring a solicitor for your prenup usually costs between £1,200 and £5,000, depending on how complicated your finances are.
Couples with modest assets and straightforward terms typically pay on the lower end, while those with substantial assets, businesses, or international ties may find themselves paying more.
When hiring a solicitor, the price usually reflects:
- How much time they spend with you, including consultations and revisions.
- The complexity of your finances (e.g., if you own property abroad or run a business).
- How experienced the solicitor is—more senior solicitors charge more.
Simplified Breakdown:
- Basic prenups (modest assets, simple terms): £1,200 – £2,000.
- Complex prenups (substantial assets, businesses, international property): £2,000 – £5,000.
Fixed Fee Prenuptial Agreement
Online Prenups vs. Local Solicitors
Some couples choose online prenup services because they can be more affordable.
However, these services are often limited to simple financial cases and don’t offer the personalised guidance you get from a local solicitor.
Local solicitors, especially those experienced in family law, can customise the prenup to your needs.
They also provide face-to-face advice, which can be essential for complex agreements involving multiple properties, businesses, or international assets.
Simplified Comparison Table:
| Online Services | Local Solicitors |
|---|---|
| Cheaper for basic prenups | More personalised service |
| Limited legal advice | Tailored advice for complex situations |
| Best for simple cases | Ideal for complex financial arrangements |
Tip: If your finances are complicated (e.g., owning property overseas or a business), local solicitors will ensure every detail is covered.
Prenup Solicitor Costs Explained
Fixed Fee Options
Many solicitors offer fixed fees, so you know exactly what you’ll pay from the start. These fixed fees often range from:
- £800 to £1,500 for simple prenups where both partners have modest assets.
- £1,800 to £5,000 (or more) for prenups involving larger assets, business ownership, or complex financial arrangements.
What’s included in a fixed fee:
Most fixed-fee packages cover the basics:
- Drafting the prenuptial agreement.
- Initial consultations to gather financial information.
- One or two rounds of revisions to finalise the agreement.
Pros of Fixed Fees:
- You know exactly how much you’ll pay.
- Ideal for simple agreements where costs can be predicted.
Cons of Fixed Fees:
- If your financial situation changes (e.g., you inherit money or purchase a business), the fixed fee may not cover additional revisions or consultations.
Hourly Rates
Solicitors who charge hourly rates generally offer more flexibility, which is important if your situation is complex or could change.
Hourly rates range from £150 to £450 per hour, depending on the solicitor’s seniority and where you live.
Hourly rates cover:
- Time spent on consultations.
- Drafting and revising the prenup.
- Handling any necessary negotiations between the partners.
Hourly rates are best for cases where your financial situation is likely to change during the drafting process, or if your prenup involves specific, detailed clauses.
Pros of Hourly Rates:
- Flexible to adjust for evolving financial situations.
- You only pay for the actual time spent on your case.
Cons of Hourly Rates:
- Costs can increase quickly if there are lengthy negotiations or complex financial arrangements.
- Less predictable overall cost, which can make budgeting difficult.
Regional Differences in Prenup Costs Across England and Wales
Prenup solicitor costs vary depending on where you live.
Larger cities like London tend to have higher rates due to demand and living costs.
Here’s a guide to regional costs:
| Region | Typical Cost Range |
|---|---|
| London | £2,500 to £5,000 |
| South East | £1,800 to £3,500 |
| South West | £1,500 to £3,000 |
| Midlands | £1,500 to £3,000 |
| North England | £1,200 to £2,500 |
| Wales | £1,200 to £2,500 |
Why costs differ:
In cities like London, you can expect to pay more for experienced solicitors with expertise in complex financial matters.
Rural areas and smaller cities may offer more affordable rates, especially if your finances are straightforward.
Can You Write a Prenup Yourself?
Some couples try to save money by writing their own prenup using online templates, but this is not recommended.
A self-written prenup may miss key details, and if it doesn’t follow legal guidelines, a court might not enforce it.
Online templates can’t account for important factors like inheritance, business income, or debts, leaving you unprotected if things change.
Solicitors know the law and can draft agreements that are specifically tailored to your situation.
A solicitor will also make sure that both partners fully understand the prenup, which is crucial for its legal validity.
Why Writing It Yourself Might Cost You Later:
- Templates can’t include specific clauses for future income or complex assets.
- Courts might not enforce the agreement if it’s not legally sound.
- You risk missing important protections for both partners.
The Best Approach to Drafting a Prenup
It’s essential to start with an initial consultation, during which you and your solicitor can discuss your needs and get a more accurate quote.
Depending on your circumstances, you may opt for a fixed-fee service or an hourly rate if you expect changes during the process.
| Approach | Reasons |
| Fixed Fee | Best for predictable costs and simpler agreements. |
| Hourly Rates | Suitable for more complex or evolving situations where flexibility is needed. |
| Legal Advice | Essential for ensuring the agreement is fair and legally sound, but costs can vary based on the extent of advice needed. |
Many solicitors will provide a more tailored estimate once they have a better understanding of your situation.