Factors that Affect the Cost of Divorce

 Posted on April 11, 2020 in Family Law

Going through a divorce is a very difficult and emotional process. It is hard to say good-bye to the person you thought you would spend the rest of our life with. However, along with the many emotions you will feel during this time, you will likely also have other concerns, including the cost of divorce. It is well understood that divorce is often expensive and it is not uncommon for those going through it to wonder just how much their divorce will cost. Although no one can determine how much a specific divorce may cost, there are some common factors that will always affect the cost of a divorce.

Whether the Divorce is Contested or Uncontested

The more contentious a divorce is, the more a divorce will cost. Divorces that involve spouses that cannot agree or compromise will typically go through litigation, which is a lengthy and expensive process. Not only does the length of a divorce affect the cost, but when a divorce goes to court, there are also additional fees, such as court costs. Also, during a litigated divorce the parties involved are subject to the schedule of the court, which can make the process take much longer. A divorce in which the two parties can agree to all terms will proceed much more quickly and cost much less.

When the Divorce Involves Children

Typically, divorces that involve children are typically more costly than divorces that do not. This is for many different reasons. The first is that divorces that involve children involve many more issues, such as child custody and child support. These issues will make the divorce take longer, which will make it more costly, as well. The second reason divorces that involve children cost more is because issues related to children are the most contentious of any divorce. This often means divorces involving children are contested, which makes them cost more.

The Divorce Process Chosen

There are some divorce processes that are more expensive than others. Litigation is by far the most expensive divorce process. However, it is not the only way to get divorced. Illinois allows collaborative divorce, which involves the two divorcing spouses and their attorneys. This is a cheaper option, but the most inexpensive method of getting a divorce is mediation. Mediation involves the two spouses and a neutral third-party mediator. Attorneys may or may not attend mediation sessions, but divorcing spouses should always consult with one, even if they are not an active part of the actual sessions.

Our Illinois Family Lawyers can Advise on Your Case

If you are going through a divorce, our skilled Hinsdale family lawyers at the Law Office of Martoccio & Martoccio can help. We can advise on your case, how to keep the costs down, and we will work in your best interests at all times. If you are considering divorce, or the process has already started, call us at 630-920-8855 or contact us online to schedule a free consultation and to learn more about how we can help.

Source:

http://www.ilga.gov/legislation/ilcs/ilcs4.asp?ActID=2086&ChapterID=59&SeqStart=6000000&SeqEnd=8300000