Anyone who has ever been through a divorce can tell you, it’s expensive for anyone at any financial level. So, how much does the average divorce really cost? Unfortunately, the answer is not a simple one.
Breaking Down the Costs:
While there may still be plenty of ads promoting a “Quick and Easy Divorce for $299,” that price is usually an up sell with lots of hidden fees. You get what you pay for is a saying for a reason.
Here are just a few items of the fees and costs divorcing couples can expect to pay: attorney’s fees, court costs, costs for parent education classes, fees for early neutral evaluations, mediation costs. And if there is real estate involved, you can also expect to pay: refinancing costs, appraisal costs, recording deed costs, added hourly attorney’s fees. Depending on the circumstances, it is possible to get away without spending what it cost to get married on your divorce.
How to Keep Your Costs Low
1. Know What You’re Agreeing To
The real cost of divorce can come from not understanding the financial consequences of a settlement. Hidden taxes, underperforming investments, depreciating assets and a budget that cannot withstand the pressures of inflation will cause people to literally go bankrupt as a result of divorce. The cost of an attorney, or court costs, often pale by comparison.
2. Act Fast
The number one factor for cost in a divorce is how long the case lasts. The more time a lawyer works on the divorce, the more costly it becomes. Coming to agreements and keeping down the fighting helps.
3. Play Nice
As pointed out above, coming to an agreement with your ex will help you move your divorce along faster. While nobody wants to go through a divorce, if you are going to have your marriage break up, it’s best that it be amicable if possible. The more you and your spouse can work out on your own, the cheaper the divorce will be.
4. Sign a Pre-Nup or Get a Post-Nup
While you may not be able to go back in time and get a pre-nup, you can look into a post nup agreement. It is still the best way to keep costs down when it comes to divorce.
For more information and a complimentary consultation regarding separation, divorce, pre- and post- nuptial agreements and more please call the Law Office of Steven B. Chroman at 661-255-1800 or visit www.chromanlaw.com.
This article was originally published in Santa Clarita Magazine as part of our firm’s mission to make family law information more accessible to the Santa Clarita community. Read the full feature and others at santaclaritamagazine.com.