The cost of a divorce lawyer is an important factor in divorce. Divorce lawyers will charge you a fee if you avail their services. Generally lawyers do not do pro-bono work in a divorce proceeding.
Divorce Lawyer
Divorce law is complex and varies from state to state. It is therefore important that you hire a lawyer who specializes in divorce law. There are no specific educational qualifications for specializing in divorce law. The lawyer must have a J.D. degree from a law school accredited by the American Bar Association and must be licensed to practice law in your state. You must be comfortable working with the lawyer. Before you hire a divorce lawyer, you should discuss and settle the issue of fees.
Fees
You should obtain a fee agreement from the lawyer. Most divorce lawyers will quote a lump sum fee based on their initial assessment of your case especially in case of an uncontested divorce. In case of a contested divorce it is generally difficult for a lawyer to quote a fixed fee. Some divorce lawyers will charge you per hearing while some may charge you an hourly rate. Most of them will require an upfront payment. No divorce lawyer will work on contingency basis. It is illegal for a divorce attorney to take up a case on contingency basis.
Factors Affecting Fees
A divorce lawyers fees will depend on may factors. Uncontested divorce will generally cost less. Besides advising you on your different options, the divorce lawyer will charge you for preparing the marital settlement agreement and other necessary documents for division of property. In a contested divorce it is difficult to put a cap on the lawyer’s fee. A contested divorce will require a trial and hearing, witness testimonies, expert witnesses, etc. If there are children from the marriage, the lawyer will also have to prepare for and fight for child custody. In a long drawn divorce case, you will be required to make periodic fee payments to the divorce lawyer based on the services provided till then. Your state and city can also play a vital role in determining the divorce lawyer’s fee. For example, a divorce attorney in New York, NY will generally charge a higher fee than a divorce attorney based in Crystal City, TX.
Getting Legal Help
If you are contemplating divorce, use the services of an experienced divorce lawyer. An experienced divorce lawyer will ensure that you rights are protected in the divorce. In the end the fees paid to the divorce lawyer will prove less costly than loosing a divorce and having to pay huge sums of money in alimony and child support.
