Divorces are difficult. Not only do you have to deal with the emotional pains that come from your marriage ending – you also have to deal with the financial issues that arise from an often costly and lengthy process.
Paul McCartney’s divorce cost him 24.3 million pounds, while Rupert Murdoch’s was settled for a whopping $1.7 billion USD. While there is no way to avoid some bills along the way, there are ways to save money and avoid a divorce that will leave both of you poorer in money and in spirit.
Decide on the division of assets between the two of you
When it comes to divorce, legalities can become costly when assets are involved. Legal bills can shoot through the roof when you have to go through the court or return to your lawyer multiple times to try and organise an arrangement for yourproperties, bank accounts, and investments. If it’s possible, try to sort out a fair arrangement between the two of you: perhaps you sell the house and divide the money, or one person keeps the car while another keeps all the furniture. If you go to your lawyer after you have these arrangements decided upon, the process will be quicker and far less costly.
A lawyer should only be brought in to help divide these assets if there is no other alternative.
Do your research
Don’t choose the first family lawyer you stumble upon, and agree to the prices they want to charge you. Like everything else, do your research and look around before you commit. Don’t be afraid to ask the lawyer questions about fees and ask for an estimate on how much they think the entire process will cost – after all, it’s your money you’re spending. If you have friends or colleagues that have gone through a similar situation, ask them for recommendations as well. The more you look around, the more options you’ll have.
Utilise online avenues
The internet is a tool that you can use to your advantage. From online forums to websites, there is plenty of information available at your fingertips. Some family lawyers will even give you the option to download a divorce kit or guide and then submit your application for divorce online to make it easier for you. Lawyers often charge by the hour, and if you don’t have to spend time asking questions in their office, you’ll save yourself plenty.
Kate Harrison is a writer who has had an unhappy experience in the past with legal fees. Now, she does all the research she possibly can before she speaks to a lawyer about her needs.