How Much Does a Divorce Attorney Cost?
The price of a divorce attorney will vary depending on the state and type of divorce. Uncontested divorces cost less than contested ones and hourly rates are different in every state. If you don’t have enough money for a full-service divorce attorney, you can negotiate flat fees or consult a forensic accountant. You can also negotiate for a lower hourly rate if you can’t afford a full-service divorce attorney.
(Want to know more? Just visit our website! familylawmissoula.com)
Uncontested divorce costs less
An uncontested divorce costs between $1,500 and $3500. Most attorneys charge a flat fee for the entire divorce, but some charge additional fees if the spouses refuse to sign the divorce papers. The higher the number of people involved in the divorce, the higher the price. It is a good idea to set aside a $500 retainer before hiring a divorce attorney. However, this is still a costly process, especially if the couple cannot agree on the division of assets.
Hourly rates vary by state
To find the lowest-cost divorce attorney, consider asking for a free consultation. While hourly rates of divorce attorneys are highly variable, they typically reflect how much the lawyer bills in total. On average, people who hired a full-service divorce attorney paid $11,300 for their legal services. The price depends on the complexity of the case, whether or not the attorney can settle with the spouse and the experience of the attorney.
Flat fees may be negotiated
When it comes to negotiating for divorce attorneys, you can negotiate for flat fees. However, you must keep in mind that flat fees are only applicable for simple divorces. Divorce cases typically involve many issues, such as child custody and support, alimony, and equitable division. Most of these issues are highly contested. If a flat fee divorce attorney can’t handle your case effectively, you’re better off saving money and a few headaches.
Consult a forensic accountant if you can’t afford a full-scope divorce attorney
If you can’t afford a full-scale divorce attorney, you might want to consider consulting a forensic accountant. The financial knowledge of a forensic accountant is invaluable in determining the fair distribution of assets during a divorce. A common misconception is that everything you and your spouse owned during the marriage will be split 50/50. But that’s simply not true. Many of the assets owned during the marriage will not be considered in the divorce settlement. A forensic accountant can help you avoid these problems by helping you set realistic goals for the future.
Other expenses associated with a divorce
A divorce will undoubtedly cost you a lot of money. In addition to legal fees, there will be additional living expenses, child support, and alimony. The costs will also add up if your ex-spouse no longer stays in the household to take care of your children. These additional expenses should be factored into your budget. A divorce attorney can help you estimate the costs of these unexpected expenses. It may also be necessary to purchase new furniture and appliances.