How Much Does a Child Arrangements Case Cost With a Barrister?

The cost of a child arrangements case depends on how long it takes to resolve, whether the case settles early or goes to a final hearing, and how much preparation time is involved. This guide gives realistic figures to help you plan.

Cases That Resolve at the First Hearing

Many child arrangements cases resolve at the First Hearing Dispute Resolution Appointment (FHDRA) with the help of a CAFCASS officer. Where both parties reach agreement at this stage, the total legal costs can be relatively modest. Representation at the FHDRA through a direct access barrister typically costs between 600 and 1,500 depending on the seniority of the barrister and the complexity of the case.

Cases That Require a Section 7 Report

Where the case is not resolved at the FHDRA and a CAFCASS Section 7 report is ordered, the proceedings will extend by several months. There will usually be at least one further hearing after the report is received. Representation across two to three hearings, including preparation and attendance, typically costs between 2,000 and 5,000 in total.

Cases That Go to a Final Hearing

A contested final hearing where both parties give evidence is the most costly stage of child arrangements proceedings. A final hearing lasting one day will typically cost between 1,500 and 4,000 for the barrister's preparation and attendance. Multi-day final hearings in complex cases, such as those involving serious allegations or international dimensions, will cost more.

Fact-Finding Hearings

Where allegations of domestic abuse need to be resolved before child arrangements are dealt with, a separate fact-finding hearing is required. These are detailed evidentiary hearings and typically cost between 2,000 and 5,000 for representation, depending on the number of allegations and the length of the hearing.

How Does Direct Access Reduce Costs?

Using a direct access barrister rather than instructing through a solicitor removes the solicitor's management fees from the equation. You handle your own correspondence and administration, paying the barrister only for the legal work and court attendance. For many people, this approach reduces the total cost of the proceedings significantly while still providing specialist representation at the hearings that matter most.

Summary

A child arrangements case resolved at the first hearing typically costs 600 to 1,500 for barrister representation. Cases going through to a final hearing range from 3,000 to 10,000 or more in total depending on complexity. Direct access removes the solicitor management layer and reduces overall costs significantly.

If you need specialist help with your case, speak to the Barrister Connect team for a no-obligation conversation. Get in touch here.