When you’re involved in divorce proceedings you’re either classed as the Respondent or the Applicant. The Applicant is the party who has filed for divorce, and the Respondent is the person who receives the divorce petition.

While you may think, that on a personal level, it’s better to get in there first and file for divorce, this will make it more expensive for you… at least in terms of legal costs. The Respondent pays far less than the Applicant, though of course it’s then up to you and your solicitor to agree with your other half how much the whole divorce will really cost you in terms of the financial settlement.

But, by being the respondent you can save some money from the outset.

Clive Bellmore