Divorces are widely known for being expensive. Between constant court dates, hiring a lawyer, working with other professionals like mediators, and possibly having to relocate, the expenses of your divorce can add up quickly.
Here is everything you need to know about the price of a divorce attorney and the overall cost of your divorce in California.
What Is a Divorce Lawyer and What Do They Do?
A divorce lawyer is a skilled attorney who focuses on family law, specifically divorce. Working with a divorce attorney can help to make the entire process much easier on you, as your lawyer is experienced with the process and can assist you with navigating through the different complicated aspects. A divorce attorney’s job encompasses a wide range of family law matters that they can assist you with, including:
- Child support issues
- Child custody issues
- Alimony
- Property division
- Appeals
- Litigation
- Disputes
Divorce Attorney Fees in California
Every attorney charges different rates depending on the services that you use and how long you need them. Your location also plays a part in the overall price a firm may charge you. On average, California divorce attorneys’ rates range anywhere from around $200 to $900 an hour.
Retainer Fees
A retainer fee is an expense paid upfront to your divorce lawyer when beginning the process of working together. The fee is used as a form of “securing” your lawyer until your payments begin. Of course, retainer fees also vary from lawyer to lawyer depending on their location and services. Retainer fees range anywhere from $1,000 to $5,000 or more in California.
Is Getting Divorced Expensive?
Unfortunately, no matter how simple your divorce process is, it will most likely involve you having to invest a large sum of money to get through it. However, a divorce doesn’t always have to be incredibly expensive.
There are multiple ways in which you can save money throughout the divorce process. One way is to use a mediator to help you and your partner come to agreements instead of going to court. By lessening the number of times you have disputes in court, you can save a great deal of money. Going through an uncontested divorce is another method that can lower your expenses, but it must be a mutual decision from both parties in which they believe the relationship is no longer reconcilable. This helps to speed up the California divorce process and ultimately helps it to cost less than a contested divorce full of disputes.
The Benefits of Hiring a Divorce Attorney
While many people may be nervous about hiring a divorce attorney for their case due to the cost, a lawyer can help you immensely throughout your divorce and even help you save money in the end. Some of the benefits that come along with hiring a divorce lawyer in California include:
Knowledge and Experience in Family Law
A divorce lawyer specializes in family law, so they have a great deal of experience working through different kinds of divorce cases and other family matters. With their experience, they can not only help you navigate through the different legal proceedings of your divorce, but they can also help familiarize you with the laws you are dealing with. Your attorney’s knowledge of the law will also come in handy when you are in court or dealing with disputes from your partner, because they will know how to properly address these disputes and create a strong case to represent you.
Negotiation Skills
Having an attorney with strong negotiation skills is crucial for any divorce case. Most likely, there will be some disagreements between you and your ex-partner. When these occur, having an attorney who can negotiate well can help both sides come to a compromise you feel comfortable with. Your divorce attorney can also negotiate for the best possible outcome for you.
Protect Your Rights
Every party involved in a divorce is entitled to specific rights throughout the process. By working with a divorce attorney, you can learn about these rights and ensure that they are protected throughout the process. Whether you have a partner who disputes every aspect of the divorce, or you believe they are trying to use sneaky tactics to undermine you, your attorney can protect you and what you’re entitled to throughout your divorce.
FAQs About Divorce Lawyer Cost in California
Q: What Is the Average Cost of a Divorce Lawyer in California?
A: The average hourly rate of an experienced divorce attorney in California is between $300 and $400, although rates can vary depending on location, the services you require, and the length of time you need them. It is best to discuss an attorney’s rates with them at the beginning of your divorce to make sure you have consistent representation throughout the process.
Q: How Much Does It Cost to Divorce in California?
A: While there is no specific answer to how much your divorce may cost, it may be possible to estimate your total by combining your different expenses. The hourly rate of your lawyer, the duration of time you worked with them, and the number of times you had to go to court will all play a part in how expensive your divorce is overall.
Q: What Is the Cheapest Way to Get a Divorce in California?
A: While there is not necessarily a “cheap way” to get divorced, there are some situations that make the process less expensive. For example, uncontested divorces are often cheaper because there are little to no disputes between partners as they both agree that the marriage is past repair. When this occurs, the divorce process can go much quicker, saving you time and money.
Q: What Is the Average Retainer Fee for a Divorce Lawyer in California?
A: A retainer fee is an upfront charge that reserves an attorney’s services for you. In California, the average retainer fee family law attorneys charge is between $3,000 and $5,000. The amount of money a retainer will require will depend on the services needed and the duration of the legal issue you need them for.
Divorce Attorneys You Can Trust: The Law Offices of Dorie A. Rogers, APC
Divorces are difficult, whether they are amicable or not. Here at the Law Offices of Dorie A. Rogers, APC, we understand just how strenuous a divorce can be, and we are dedicated to helping make the process easier on you. Whether you are constantly getting into disagreements with your ex-partner, or you need help fighting for primary custody, our team at the Law Offices of Dorie A. Rogers, APC, is prepared to help. To learn more about our divorce services and how we may be able to assist in your case, contact us today for more information.