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:
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How complex are the matters at issue?
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How many court appearances will be necessary?
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Will expert witnesses be necessary?
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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 consider 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.
