A recent revelation by Lawyer Austin Brako-Powers has shed light on the financial implications of pursuing a legal divorce in Ghana. During an appearance on Onua Maadwo on October 7, 2026, Brako-Powers broke down the costs associated with hiring a divorce lawyer in the country. According to him, legal fees for a divorce case range from GH¢30,000 to GH¢90,000. This figure, however, does not account for additional costs such as transport and statutory fees.
Brako-Powers emphasized that the bulk of the expense lies in legal representation rather than court filing alone. In addition to the legal fees, clients must also budget for transport costs to the lawyer's office, which amount to a minimum of GH¢500 per court date. Furthermore, statutory court fees add a further layer of expense that clients must budget for separately. The lawyer's remarks have sparked a heated debate online, with many Ghanaians weighing in on the affordability of legal divorce.
The online reaction to Brako-Powers' remarks has been mixed, with some offering legal workarounds and others responding with humor. Some individuals have suggested that couples can opt for a DIY divorce if they do not have any assets to share. Others have proposed that divorce should not be expensive and that couples can simply choose to live apart. The debate highlights the complexities and challenges associated with divorce in Ghana.
Brako-Powers' estimate of the total cost of a divorce is around GH¢50,000, which he considers a conservative figure. This estimate takes into account the legal fees, transport costs, and statutory court fees. The costs can accumulate quickly, especially if the divorce proceedings are lengthy. As a result, many Ghanaians are questioning whether the system makes divorce accessible to ordinary people.
The issue of divorce costs has also raised questions about the accessibility of legal services in Ghana. The country's legal education system requires aspiring lawyers to complete an LLB, professional training, and pass the National Bar Examination. The process can take several years and involves significant fees. As a result, many individuals may be deterred from seeking legal representation due to the high costs.
The online reactions to Brako-Powers' remarks highlight the need for a more nuanced discussion about divorce in Ghana. While some individuals have proposed alternative solutions, others have emphasized the importance of seeking legal representation. The debate underscores the complexities and challenges associated with divorce in the country.
The article by Portia Arthur, Entertainment Editor at YEN.com.gh, provides an in-depth analysis of the issue. Portia Arthur has nearly a decade of experience in journalism and has worked with various publications, including Pulse.com.gh and YEN.com.gh. Her article highlights the need for a more accessible and affordable divorce process in Ghana.
Key points
- - The cost of hiring a divorce lawyer in Ghana ranges from GH¢30,000 to GH¢90,000. - Additional costs such as transport and statutory fees can accumulate quickly. - The high costs of divorce have sparked a debate about the accessibility of legal services in Ghana.
