Saturday, October 11, 2008

Divorce Attorney: How to Keep Your Divorce Costs Inexpensive

Divorce Attorney

Divorce is not only emotionally draining, mentally tiring and painful - it's also expensive. When you have little resources to start with, the idea of paying for a divorce can be very daunting. However, there are ways to get a divorce without having to pay a small fortune. Most people don't know about those ways or don't consider them when getting a divorce. This article discusses how to keep your divorce costs inexpensive so that you can more easily move on with your life.

Attorney's Fees

The most expensive thing you will probably pay for when you're getting a divorce is your attorney's fees. Attorneys not only require an up-front retainer in order to represent you, but they also charge you outrageous hourly fees along with fees to file paperwork, do research and much more. In fact, you're practically getting scammed even though most people think you MUST have an attorney when you're getting divorced. This isn't true. Mediation is one of the cheapest ways to obtain a divorce (along with being less emotionally charged) and you don't even need an attorney. You and your spouse decide amongst yourselves where your assets and property will be divided and custody issues if you have children. This is a great way to keep your divorce from being too expensive.

Mediation Charges

If you do decide to go with mediation, you should know that the charges will end up costing you less than a typical divorce. This is because mediation is almost always the quickest way to get divorced. While a courtroom battle can go on for months and even years, mediation is usually over in just a few visits. Mediators are trained to work with spouses who may be bitter, hostile or angry at each other. They help the couple get past those feelings in order to decide what's best for both people. This helps you move on with your life more quickly and avoid the circus of emotions that courtroom divorces often bring.

If You Must Hire an Attorney

If you decide that you must hire an attorney, there are a few things you can do to make your divorce cheaper. Find an attorney that allows you to pay a flat fee for the entire divorce process. They do exist, although they may be difficult to find. This will save you money because you won't be paying for any extra hours or days and you won't be paying more for research that the attorney (who is supposed to know things) must conduct. If you can't find an attorney who will accept a flat fee, you may at least be able to negotiate with the lawyer for a cheaper retainer and hourly fee.

Divorce is one expensive process, but with the tips and tricks above, it is possible to get through it without putting yourself in the poor house. Remember that when you are hiring an attorney, you will essentially be the 'boss,' so try to negotiate and if you're unable to, find another one! These tips will help you get your divorce in a cheaper way so that you can move on with your life.

Danielle L. Taylor is a freelance writer and mom of 3, who's come through a devastating divorce with her husband of 15 years after his infidelity and was able to get back on track as a strong, happy and free person. To read more of her articles visit Xstilla.com - one of the most active communities for divorce support in the Internet.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Danielle_L._Taylor

0 comments: