Divorce can be an expensive situation. Here are ideas to help you contain the costs during the divorce process.
DETERMINE A FINANCIAL STRATEGY WITH YOUR ATTORNEY AT THE BEGINNING OF YOUR CASE.
There are NO GUARANTEES as to how much your divorce is going to cost. An attorney can explain their rate and give you an estimate on how long it may take but you never know the outcome until it’s finished. Words of Wisdom: In Life the rule is everything takes longer and cost more than you think.
Don’t start a financial battle with your ex spouse because you are fighting an emotional battle. Create a financial strategy with your attorney at the beginning so you don’t get buried in debt. I have seen this happen too many times and the effects devastate the family and create lasting scars.
CONSIDER UNBUNDLED SERVICES.
I offer unbundled services to clients for this very reason. Some clients need a consultation where I draft documents on an agreement between both parties handled between themselves. A lawyer drafting the documents provides security to both parties indicating the agreement will be enforceable in the future if necessary. A lawyer drafting documents ensures all issues are properly addressed and nothing is left out of the agreement.
Some clients want to do all of the paper work, but just want a “lawyer for the day.” A lawyer cannot appear in court without any preparation but using a lawyer to prepare for a specific hearing and court appearance is usually less time and less expensive than having the attorney represent you throughout the case.
Other clients needed assistance at their mediation to offer legal advice through the settlement process.
My recommendation is to always have counsel since we know the intricate details of the law, we have experience in these situations which can make the process seem less and are there to help you make rational decisions verses emotional ones. Sometimes hiring an attorney is not financially possible for some people that is why I offer unbundled services.
If you find you are a candidate for this type of help please call me or email me
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