How much does a divorce cost?

divorce cost woman taking off her wedding ring

Divorces are not a one-size-fits-all type of deal. Every couple’s divorce is unique. Regardless of the reason or grounds for a divorce, they can cost a substantial amount of money depending on which divorce route a couple selects. Divorces may be contested or uncontested. Additionally, they may choose the alternative route of divorce mediation. These choices can affect how much a divorce costs. If you are seeking a divorce, contact a knowledgeable and determined Pensacola Divorce Lawyer who can help you settle the terms that will apply to the termination of your marriage.

What is the cost of a divorce?

Depending on the state a couple lives in, there are several factors that could affect the cost of their divorce. However, one of the main factors is whether the divorce is contested or uncontested. A contested divorce is a divorce where a couple cannot reach a mutual agreement on the terms of the termination of their marriage. An uncontested divorce is when a couple mutually agrees on all pertinent terms of their divorce. Typically, contested divorces cost more than uncontested divorces for several reasons. Firstly, contested divorces are usually take a while to finalize as the couple cannot reach a mutual agreement on the division of assets, property distribution, child custody, and other major issues at hand. Contested divorces typically take at least a year to settle. This makes contested divorces significantly more expensive than uncontested divorces since they take longer to finalize. If a couple wants to keep the cost relatively low, they should pursue an uncontested divorce. An uncontested divorce can be settled in as little as six weeks depending on the circumstances.

Another factor that could increase the price of a divorce is mediation. Divorce mediation is when a mediator tries to help a couple reach a mutual agreement on the terms that will apply to their divorce. Divorce mediation can shorten the divorce process as it can help couples avoid litigation. However, divorce mediation still costs a pretty penny. Mediation can cost up to $8,000. There are several factors that can affect how much a divorce costs.

What fees will affect the cost?

When a couple seeks the dissolution of their marriage, they typically consider how much their divorce will cost. When a couple files for divorce, they will have to pay a court fee. Once the divorce papers are filed and a spouse receives divorce paperwork they will also have to pay a court fee when they return the divorce petition. In Florida, it typically costs around $400 to file for divorce. After a spouse files for a divorce they are required to serve their spouse with divorce paperwork notifying them of the divorce. In some cases, spouses choose to hire a process server. This is an additional fee. As mentioned above, there are additional court fees that can affect the cost of a divorce.

If the dissolution of your marriage is unavoidable, please don’t hesitate to contact our skilled team members.