The best way of minimising the costs of divorce is for you and your spouse to keep talking and agree as much as possible between yourselves. Although you may still need to use a solicitor to draw up an agreement that reflects your wishes, this will be more cost-effective than using a mediator or negotiating entirely through your lawyers. You should take legal advice before finalising any agreement.
Matters can be more complicated if there are children involved, but you can still work out many of the practical details yourself. You and your spouse can agree on maintenance payments and arrangements for you both to spend time with your children.
If some areas of disagreement remain, you may wish to consider using a mediator to resolve any specific issues. Although there will be a fee for this service, the cost would be less than going to court. It can also be emotionally better for you to reach an agreement, rather than having a court tell you what is going to happen.
Remember that the timing of your divorce can have an impact in terms of personal and capital gains tax, and you may wish to take financial advice on the best time to transfer any assets, or to sell any property or shares.