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Divorce needn't be expensive...

When they say their wedding vows, most couples sincerely believe that marriage will last. Sadly, figures from the Office for National Statistics show that nearly half of all UK marriages will end in divorce, with over 300,000 people expected to divorce in 2008.

In the current economic climate, an expensive, drawn-out divorce is a nightmare for a newly-single man or woman.

Although it's tempting to call a divorce lawyer the second your relationship goes wrong, legal costs mount up and add to the stress. But there are ways to get divorced without a huge price tag...

Divorce lawyers

The divorce process can seem intimidating and complicated, particularly if you're under emotional pressure.

A solicitor can make the process easier, but when using one and going through the British courts, the average divorce costs a galling £13,000 - and couples still have to get to grips with legal jargon and paperwork, often chasing lawyers for updates.

DIY Divorces

A solicitor is not obligatory. In straightforward cases, some couples opt for DIY divorce kits, which start from as little as £14.99 and claim to guide separating couples through the legal process.

DIY kits usually consist of downloadable divorce papers and guides to completing forms and supplying correct documentation. DIY divorces work for amicably divorcing couples, and you'll still have to cover court costs.

You can also contact local legal centres or Citizens Advice for free information and advice on DIY divorce resources.