How much do divorce actions cost?

Simply put, the cost of a divorce is dictated by the parties.  When parties choose litigation as a means to divorce, each party must hire an attorney and each must pay a retainer, as well as the attorney’s hourly rate, once the retainer is exhausted.  If mediation is chosen, only one retainer is paid and, for the most part, the divorce action will cost substantially less.  When parties are able to work together, come together in the negotiation process, and reach compromises, the cost of divorce can be minimized.  However, if a divorce action commences with immediate court intervention for temporary support and/or custody, or the divorce action continues with conflict, multiple court applications, or if one of the parties fails to provide financial information or documents, the divorce action can become very costly.  The facts of each case will determine the cost of your divorce.