One of the earlier questions a client usually asks during a consultation for divorce is what are the monetary costs (legal fees) of obtaining a divorce. The reality is, in New York, the costs for a divorce are slightly higher than the national average. However, that takes into account that the divorce rate is higher in New York than in other places in the country, as well as the fact that the cost of living and earnings of people in New York are also higher.
Unfortunately, the process between court fees and the documentation required by the courts in order to grant a divorce cannot be avoided. Therefore, the actual costs of your divorce will vary, depending on the complexity of your matter as well as which method or process you utilize. Obviously a highly contested divorce, i.e. with two attorneys fighting every issue out through the court system can become astronomically expensive. Collaborative divorce and mediation are less expensive and are a much more holistic approach.
However, when all is said and done, in my opinion and experience, Mediation and the Collaborative process can run about the same. Again, each case is different and it depends largely upon the complexity of your circumstances i.e. whether there are children, retirement assets, marital assets and debt, etc.
It's important to have the right professional to help you navigate any process. That is why a collaborative divorce, using collaboratively trained professionals, in my opinion, is the best and most holistic approach and when compared with the alternatives is the most cost effective.
If you have any questions please contact me @ Spiriolaw.com or one of the amazing Collaborative Divorce Professionals @ LICDP.com
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