The emotional cost of divorce is significant; however, the financial cost of divorce is often one of the top concerns for most family law clients. As attorneys, we understand that the cost of divorce is an issue for clients because many are still adjusting to having only one income in the household as they struggle with the financial aspects of the divorce. Paying for a divorce seems to add to the frustration and pain of the entire situation.
Unfortunately, the cost of divorce cannot be estimated until the attorney has met with the client and reviewed the case in detail. Each divorce is unique; therefore, it is impossible for an attorney to provide an accurate cost of divorce to a client before meeting with the client. It is much like asking a doctor if you are in good health without ever allowing the doctor to examine you or perform any diagnostic tests.
Some attorneys quote low, flat rates for a divorce simply to get people to come into the door; however, the divorce attorneys of Pioletti Pioletti & Nichols prefer to offer a free consultation for potential clients. During the consultation, the attorney can better ascertain the situation and discuss fees within the framework of your divorce rather than based on someone else’s divorce action. For example, the cost of divorce may be less for you if your divorce is uncontested and you do not have any children with your current spouse.
Factors that Affect the Cost of Divorce
The cost of divorce will depend on the circumstances of your divorce. As discussed above, some divorces cost less than others do based on several factors. The amount of the retainer fee and the total cost of divorce will vary depending on factors such as:
- Is the divorce uncontested or contested?
- Do the parties have any children together?
- Will there be discovery costs (i.e. depositions)?
- Are the parties arguing over the distribution of assets or the division of debt?
- Will experts be required (i.e. appraisers to value assets, private investigators, etc.)?
- What are the fixed costs of the case (i.e. court costs, filing fees, court reporter fees, etc.)?
- Will the parties use a mediator?
The Cost of Divorce for Contested vs.
Uncontested Divorces
In most cases, an uncontested divorce will cost less than a contested divorce for several reasons. In a contested divorce, the number of issues and the complexity of the issues being contested in the largest factor in determining the cost of divorce. The larger the number of complex issues, the more time the attorney must spend on the case; therefore, the attorney fees will be larger in a contested divorce as opposed to an uncontested divorce.
Typically, issues dealing with child custody, child support, alimony and division of marital assets will increase the total cost of divorce. Furthermore, in an uncontested divorce, you typically do not have fees for experts nor do you have discovery fees because the parties agree as to all terms of the divorce. Unfortunately, some uncontested divorces unravel as the parties proceed through the divorce process. The attorney nor the parties have any way of knowing this in advance; therefore, it is impossible to estimate the cost of divorce with absolute certainty.
Contact Our Office for a Consultation with an Experienced Illinois Divorce Attorney
Serving Our Clients with Sound Guidance and Unparalleled Dedication
Pioletti Pioletti & Nichols is a full service law firm that represents individuals who need experienced divorce attorneys. With offices located in Eureka and Bloomington, we represent clients throughout Woodford County, McLean County, Tazewell County, Peoria County, and the surrounding communities. We offer free consultations. You can contact our office by calling 309-938-4838.
When you need the assistance of an experienced family law attorney in Central Illinois, call the compassionate and skilled attorneys of Pioletti Pioletti & Nichols. We are dedicated to giving our clients exceptional service and support throughout the divorce process.