How Much Does It Cost to Get Divorced
How much should it cost to get divorced? This is a common question to which there is unfortunately no
good answer. A divorce action can be filed without an attorney for less than $300.00. On the other hand, all of us have read of celebrity divorces costing $100,000.00 or more. The truth is, the cost of a divorce is dependent upon many factors including:
- How complex are the matters at issue
- How many court appearances will be necessary
- Will expert witnesses be necessary
- Do you have information in your possession or will you need to subpoena documents
One thing you can do to insure that your attorney fees do not get out of hand is to be clear about your objectives. Make sure that you and your attorney have the same goals in mind, and be clear about which goals are "wants" and which goals are "needs". Then, be prepared to be flexible. For example do you "need" the 2007 Dodge Durango, or do you "need" transportation? Be open to the suggestions of your lawyer, and considering meeting with a financial professional if you are not comfortable making financial decisions. It may make better financial sense for you to take the 2000 Toyota Camry that is paid off, then to assume the 2007 Dodge Durango which is a lease and carries steep monthly payments.
Next check your emotions at the door. Handle your divorce like a business transaction. Going through the end of any relationship can be painful, and you can, and should seek appropriate emotional support from friends, clergy, or a mental health professional. Keep in mind, however that your attorney is not a counselor, and it can be very expensive to use your attorney to sort through your emotions.
Finally, do not forget to evaluate your decisions from a cost benefit analysis. This is not the time to litigate on principal. Litigate when it is necessary, but make sure what you are litigating over is worth more than the dollars you are spending.
