Divorce can cause a lot of emotional stress even without adding financials and costs into the mix. Adding those can cause more stress, especially because costs vary between cases. There is a lot to consider that you probably don’t think about at the initial divorce decision. However, being familiar with the factors that drive costs the most can help you logically evaluate your situation and know what to focus on moving forward.
Complicated Cases
If your case is more complicated and requires many different resources and legal fees, it will cost much more than a simple negotiation. Usually, these will be fault divorces, meaning one person is at fault and the other has grounds to file. They usually require evidence and other law involvement. Consider the complexities and if it is worth all of the costs.
Mediation
Depending on if you decide to settle your case through mediation or court action will drastically affect the cost outcome. Mediation occurs when the two parties negotiate an outcome while a third party is involved to help out. If the case goes to court, there will be a lot of expenses that you will have to pay for when going to trial.
Spousal Support
Costs can vary depending on how much of a compromise you come to with your spouse about support. If you are the one that has to pay spousal support, you will be taking the brunt of those costs. Also, if you need to go to court to come to an agreement, that will add additional costs.
Child Support
If each party wants at least partial custody of their children, disputes over outcomes usually take more time and money. A favorable outcome may require many court and legal fees. Adding children into the mix of divorce can cause more complications, even outside of legality. You may need to pay for counseling if that is something that is needed throughout the process.
Lawyers
Lawyers tend to charge a certain amount hourly. This can depend on other factors such as location, experience, and all the services that you need from them. The cost can stack up quickly depending on how much time you need from them. However, investing in a lawyer is a good idea because their help can cut back other expenses in the long run.
Duration
Like most things, the longer something goes on, the more expensive it will be as you have to continue paying for it. Court fees, lawyer fees, paperwork, spousal support, etc. can all add up to more costs over time.
Location
Costs can also depend on where you live. Different states have different rates on lawyer fees, court fees, etc. Make sure to research your location specifically to find out what kind of rates are available where you live.
Conclusion
All of these factors can help you during your divorce process to understand where fees may come from and how to avoid fees in certain areas that aren’t important to you. At Affordable Family Law, we can help you with these major financial decisions.