How much are the court fees if I am not entitled to legal aid?

The Court fees for a divorce depend on which level of Court you bring the case in. They are also subject to change by the Court. See link below for the current fees.

https://www.justice-ni.gov.uk/sites/default/files/publications/justice/cfr-family-proceedings-fees-01-10-19.pdf

What happens if the Respondent refuses to sign the divorce papers?

Once papers are served the Respondent has 35 days to sign and return the divorce papers. If they do not, then another letter will be sent to them asking them to return the papers. If papers are still not signed and returned to the Court, then the Petitioner’s solicitor can make an application to the Court to dispense with the Respondent’s signature. The Petitioner’s solicitor will make an application to the Court, will attend Court on their behalf and will ask the Court to make an Order Deeming Service Good. If this Order is made the divorce can proceed without the need for the Respondent’s signature.

When does a Respondent pay the fees?

At the Decree Nisi Hearing a costs application can be made to the Court requesting that the Respondent pay the full costs or half costs of the divorce. This is usually done in the case of adultery or unreasonable behaviour. It is the Court’s decision as to whether the Respondent has to pay costs.