We receive many calls where divorcing spouses want to know what we charge to get them divorced. Since we offer so many options with different pricing, there is no predetermined answer to that very general question but maybe this will help…..
In our initial consultations, we discuss various approaches a couple can take to go through the divorce process. One thing we discuss is the possible duration of a case, and another is a range of costs. For instance, if a couple wants a traditional litigated divorce where they and their attorneys of record make court appearances over a period of 1 year to 10+ years. That may cost somewhere between $20,000-$100,000+ per spouse depending on the complexity of the case and the level of conflict between spouses and their respective attorneys. There are some very simple, clear cut cases where the lawyers are determined to keep costs down that may cost less.
Then there are better and less expensive ways to dissolve a marriage by choosing to keep yourselves and your attorneys out of court. The duration of these cases typically range from a couple of months to a couple of years. Of course you need to learn about the 6-month cooling off period and potentially factor that into your timeline.
4 ways that are less expensive than than traditional litigation involve both of you choosing not to hire an attorney of record and instead agree to: mediate, co-mediate, use consulting attorneys, or use the collaborative divorce process. Typically, these processes cost a small fraction of a full on, heated litigation battle. Yes, you have a choice of using a consulting lawyer instead of retaining an attorney of record. A consulting lawyer may charge you bit by bit for as little as 2 hours, while an attorney of record charges a retainer fee between $3,500 and $50,000 in advance. We’re happy to explain the different ranges of costs for these processes.
To learn more so that you can decide which process fits your situation and budget, call Amicable Divorce Services to schedule a free initial consultation 626-351-1200