It’s been a persistent feeling and you’ve decided that divorce is the only option. But how much do divorce lawyers charge?
Divorce lawyers have in-depth knowledge of divorce law, from alimony and property division to child custody and support. In any case, the decision to hire one should not be taken lightly.
There are several things to consider, and each one will come into play in determining the costs that you are likely to pay.
Below, we look at the factors that determine divorce lawyer fees, so keep reading to learn more about what to expect when you go looking for prospects.
Hourly Fees
The cost of a divorce attorney can vary, depending on a number of factors, including the length and complexity of your divorce, the number of attorneys involved, and whether you live in a rural or urban area.
Typically, a divorce lawyer will charge an hourly rate, which can range from $100 to $400 per hour. This goes for whether you decide to work with a family law attorney or a family law firm.
Flat Fees
Some lawyers may charge a flat fee for certain types of divorce cases, such as those that are not affected by too many variables from either spouse’s side affecting its progress.
One example is an uncontested divorce. When parties agree on all issues, including child custody, visitation, child support, spousal support, and division of property, the lawyer will simply follow filing guidelines.
The is will also make it easy for both parties to handle the whole divorce process without much intervention.
Retainer Fees
The average retainer fee for a divorce lawyer is $2,500. This fee is typically charged upfront and is non-refundable. It is common for divorce lawyers to require a retainer fee because it ensures that they will be compensated for their time and efforts even if the case is settled out of court.
The retainer fee also allows the divorce lawyer to cover the costs of any necessary expert witnesses or investigators. In some cases, the retainer fee may be even higher, depending on the complexity of the case.
The retainer does not often include any legal costs associated with the divorce lawyer’s normal retainer fee. These include any filing fees, costs of serving notice to the other party, or travel expenses incurred while representing the client.
Understanding Divorce Lawyer Fees
The best way to find out how much a divorce lawyer will charge is to schedule a consultation. During this meeting, you will also have the opportunity to understand the costs as the lawyer explains the details.
In most cases, an initial consultation will be free, so it’s a good way to meet every candidate on your shortlist and make comparisons after you’ve talked with everyone.
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