Keeping Costs Down in a Divorce

Many couples want to divorce, but don’t because of one main reason: money. Uncoupling is not cheap. The average cost of a divorce is roughly $15,000, but in some cases, it can be a lot more. This is a huge cost to bear, especially if one spouse is a stay-at-home parent or is otherwise not employed and earning income.

So does this mean that a couple is doomed to be miserable for life? Not necessarily. While divorce can be pricey, there are some low-cost alternatives and ways to save money. If you truly want to divorce, there is a way. Here are some tips to help.

Try Mediation

If you and your spouse both want a divorce and are willing to negotiate and compromise, then mediation may be a good option. Mediation involves a neutral third party who guides the couple to an agreement. While the mediator cannot give legal advice or side with one person, they can answer questions and help you and your spouse reach a fair agreement on issues such as asset division and child custody. While mediation does not work for everyone, especially those who want revenge on the other party, it’s worth a try.

Locate and Organize Financial Documents

You can save on legal costs by doing a lot of legwork yourself. A lot of the divorce process relies on financial documents, so if you’re willing and able to locate these yourself, you’ll save your lawyer a lot of time, which translates into fewer expenses for you. So start looking for your pay stubs, tax returns, bank and retirement account statements, credit card bills and mortgage statements now.

Compile Your Questions

Don’t call or email your lawyer every time you have a question. Each time you do so, you may be billed for 15 minutes each time, even if you spend just a couple minutes. Therefore, save yourself some time and money by compiling a list of questions and then sending an email. With divorce lawyers often charging several hundred dollars an hour, you’ll potentially save thousands of dollars

Don’t Waste Your Lawyer’s Time

Don’t lean on your lawyer for emotional support. They are not your therapist or confidant. Remember that they charge by the hour, so the hours that you spend venting to them about your divorce will add up. If you feel the need to vent, consider talking to a close friend or family member instead. If you have issues from the divorce and need help, consider someone who is licensed and qualified to help you, such as a therapist. Leave the legal matters to your attorney.

Contact a Maryland Family Law Attorney Today

Divorces often involve many elements. As such, they can be time-consuming and costly. While divorces can often cost tens of thousands of dollars, you can do your part to cut costs.

The Columbia divorce lawyers at the Law Offices of Todd K. Mohink, P.A. can help you divorce without the high expenses. He can save money and stress. To schedule a consultation, fill out the online form or call (410) 774-5987. We have two offices to serve you.

Resources:

businessinsider.com/average-cost-divorce-getting-divorced-us-2019-7

yakimaherald.com/news/business/pennyhoarder/low-cost-divorce-is-possible-here-s-how-to-keep-costs-down/article_87c66f7a-6226-5d04-b18c-0cdfa60c6232.html