How Much are Divorce Lawyer Fees?

Divorce Lawyer Fees

You can talk about divorce lawyers all day, but in the end, you will need to consider whether it is worth it for yourself. One of the top questions couples ask between themselves is how much are divorce lawyer fees; this article will give a reasonable answer to that question. There is a saying which goes “you get what you pay for;” in the case of divorce lawyers that is saying a lot.

Your first consideration will be what kind of outcome do you want for your divorce? The desired result may not be available to you at first, so here are a few points that many lawyers point out in divorce proceedings. Is the divorce contested or non-contested?

Contest Fees or Non-Contested Fees

A contested divorce happens when there is a lot of property, kids, and alimony in the mix; then a divorce lawyer will be worth his weight in gold. Secondly, how do you want to pay the lawyer? Some lawyers work on a retainer basis, while others charge per hour and bill frequently as long as the proceedings are in tow. Thirdly, is there any child custody issues? Do you need any mediation? Lastly, do you need a pro bono lawyer, or can you handle the legal fees?

Many lawyers charge a standard $150-250/hour for consultation and legal counsel. A general ballpark figure of a divorce proceeding that is non-contest that may last a year before all files are cleared and finalized is between $15-20K.

Professional Comparisons

Many professional lawyers will post certain compare of legal charges which are very helpful. It is good to be able to see side by side the ranges of legal divorce fees. Please consider that every case is different and there can never be just one fee for a divorce. In the nd only you can decide whether it is worth it to hire a divorce lawyer. Don’t allow yourself to fall into a trap in thinking that a divorce has to be just one way.

There are options where the couple can work things outside of court and reduce their court costs by twenty-fold. By sorting out all the divorce decisions without a mediating attorney will save distress and plenty of emotional turmoil for the family and children.

National Averages

As mentioned above the national average for divorce is around $15K per person. Of course, this does include all the attorney’s fees, the court cost, the appraisers, and advisors that will be needed to split the assets among the husband and wife. Thru the legal divorce process, you are investing in your new future and freedom. If you find a compassionate and caring lawyer, who understands what you are enduring for the sake of your children and family, the entire legal proceeding will be valuable.

The whole process may be completed in as little as four months, but also may extend into a year. If a developed contest or disagreement between the couple emerges the cost of a divorce will require more court time and increased legal fees, which may increase as much as $2500.

National Average Costs

There are possibly many answers to the questions of how much are divorce lawyer fees. Practically a rough estimate between $15-20K per person can are given here received from historical statistics. Also, an additional $2500 or more could accrue if the legal proceedings turn into a contested divorce case. These are national averages. Otherwise, the other option is for the couple to settle between themselves to save thousands of dollars of lawyer fees.