Issues that determine the costs of divorce

The average cost of a divorce in Usa is around $20,000 but it is a ballpark figure becouse the actual expenses may add up much higher. There is also the social cost of divorce and it has been estimated that a single divorce costs the federal governments about $30,000, based on things as the higher use of food stamps and public housing as well as increased bankruptcies and juvenile delinquency.

Therefore, you can see that divorce is quite and expensive proposition. Getting divorced is one of the most hurtful experiences one can face in life. Not only can it hurt you emotionally, leaving scars in your psyche that take decades to heal , but it can leave you so financially drained that it may take years for you to get back on your feet.

There is little to ameliorate the emotional pain other than the support of your friends and family; however, with the proper choice of legal assistance, you can substantially lower your financial burden.

Some of the issues that determine the costs of divorce are:

1. Type of divorce - this can be any of the four types:

> Mediation - A mediator, acting as an impartial third party, helps couples work through the issues of their divorce to reach a mutually agreeable settlement. The only cost is the cost of the mediator; fees paid to have an attorney review the agreement and filing fees with the court.

> Divorce court - Expenses include court fees, filing fees and attorney fees. This is the most expensive option and should be employed if mediation is not possible.

> Do-it-yourself/Pro Se Litigation - You represent yourself in your divorce case, without an attorney. The procedures that you must follow are the same.

> Collaborative - There are two attorneys, two Collaborative Coaches, a Divorce Financial Specialist and if you have children a Child Specialist, all of whom are paid as per their individual rates.. Although the process can be expensive, in the long run costs far less than a long , drawn out litigated divorce. There are no court or filing fees.

2. Custody of children - If custody is disputed, there are a lot of costs involved. If the court appoints a Guardian Ad Litem, you will have that expense. Your attorney may want to call expert witness, which will be an added expense. Also, alimony and child support are dependent on the outcome of the case.

3. Marital assets and debt - If there has been an accumulation of large amounts of marital property and debts your attorney may want to hire a Certified Divorce Financial Analyst, a real estate appraiser or pension funds expert. This adds to the costs.

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