There are many ways to get a divorce and each one will cost a different amount. While the cost of divorce proceedings is not likely to be the only reason why you might choose one method of divorce instead of another, it is something you should be aware of. Following are the different types of divorces as well as some idea of how much each one costs compared to the others.
Litigated Divorce
This is the type of divorce that is going to cost you the most. It is difficult to quote exact numbers but in some cases a trial that lasts a mere two days can end up costing you $25,000 or more. In some instances it may be less but you should know that high costs are not only entirely possible but are to be expected with this type of divorce. The reason for this is that it is an adversarial way of approaching the process and that makes things difficult.
Mediation
Mediation is growing in popularity because of its many benefits, including its lower cost. The average price you can expect to pay for this type of divorce is often around $5000. This may sound like a lot but compared to a litigated divorce this is cheap. A mediator helps the two parties to come to an arrangement that both can be satisfied with.
Uncontested Divorce
An uncontested divorce is one wherein there is no assigned fault unless both parties agree upon the fault. This is another case where both parties come to an agreement during the proceedings and, therefore, is another non-adversarial method of getting a divorce. It costs even less than the other types mentioned so far. This type of divorce can work but only when both parties can work together well enough to settle matters on their own.
Do It Yourself Divorce
Technically, you can take care of all the paperwork yourself and get divorced through your own efforts. In this instance the party who is filing for divorce would either have to know enough about the process or learn enough about the process to complete all paperwork correctly and to respond to any legal issues that arise. This is the cheapest route of all usually ranging from $250 to $500 total.
Why You Need A Divorce Attorney In All Cases
You will clearly need a divorce attorney for most of these methods but you will want to hire one no matter what route you take so that you know that you are handling the divorce process correctly and in a manner that will leave you satisfied. This is an important process. Let a lawyer help you make sure it is done the right way.
