Divorce has many elements but here are 3 major expectations to help you understand the process.
EXPECT THERE TO BE OPTIONS
There are more options than we can explain, but consider these
- You can come to agreements before actually filing for divorce.
- You can hire collaborative attorneys and agree to never go to court.
- You can mediate your disagreements and then hire your lawyers for final approval of your agreements.
- You can hire counsel just to draft your legal documents – known as offering “unbundled services.”
- You of course can always hire the most qualified and experienced litigator to take everything to Court and not compromise or agree to anything without Court order.
EXPECT THERE TO BE COSTS INVOLVED
Depending on the complexity of your situation and the amount of contention between the parties, you may spend $1000.00 or $100,000.00.
Most attorneys bill their services at an hourly rate, breaking down the hour into 6 minute increments for purposes of billing.
When considering the amount of retainer asked of you, appreciate the level of experience your counsel and her associates and staff have in Family Law.
EXPECT TO RESOLVE
Whether you are a parent with grown children and several assets or a new parent with young children, the Judge’s signature will not terminate your relationship with the person you are divorcing.
Using your divorce to RESTRUCTURE your family will likely prevent you from returning to Court for several post decree issues – meaning matters after the Court enters the initial orders the first time.
Paying your counsel thousands of dollars will not resolve communication and anger issues with your spouse or partner. Resolve to parent better, to find mutual respect to communicate better for the sake of parenting, to SAVE YOUR CHILDREN from suffering through your divorce.
If you don’t have children and are instead worried about the division of property and debt, work with counsel to find agreements that are reality based – meaning the agreements actually work for your situation.
How can you get in and get out with the least amount of legal fees but with the best result that doesn’t leave you in destitute or without promise for the new future you intend to build for yourself. What will keep you from having to come back to Court or deal with others in other matters.
