Divorce is a necessary measure for some couples, but it is not an easy process. It can take months or even years and end up costing tens of thousands of dollars. If you are thinking about filing for divorce you should consider the various costs that are required during the process. The type of divorce and whether or not you and your spouse share children will have a significant impact on the costs. If you are wondering if you can afford to get a divorce, reach out to a Farmington Hills divorce lawyer to discuss your situation and acquire representation.
How Much Does a Divorce Cost?
Getting a divorce can cost thousands of dollars. There are many moving parts that need to be addressed when attempting to legally separate from your spouse. Average divorce costs will vary from state to state. In Michigan, the average cost of a divorce is around $4,000. However, contested divorces or ones where children are involved can wind up costing you $20,000 or even more. Consider the following costs when determining whether or not you can afford a divorce.
- Court filing fees ranging from $175 to $300
- Attorney fees ranging from $300 to $500 per hour
- Daily court costs
The above costs add up. You may end up paying your attorney $10,000 or more depending on how long it takes to resolve your divorce. The more conflicts and disputes that arise during the process, the more expensive your divorce will be. Going to trial over certain issues will cause your costs to skyrocket.
Can I Afford to Live on My Own?
If you are concerned that you may not be able to afford a divorce, there are other costs to consider than just getting the divorce. You need to take into account what your life will look like after the divorce. Ask yourself the following questions to determine whether or not you can afford to support yourself financially if you do get divorced.
- Do I largely rely on my spouse’s income?
- Do I have an income that can support myself and my children?
- Am I able to obtain my own health or other insurance?
- Can I afford to buy or rent a home on my own?
- Can I afford moving costs?
- Will I be able to pay alimony or child support to my spouse if required?
- Can I afford childcare or education for my children?
It is important to be realistic about your future. Divorce may be the best or only option for you but you should be prepared for the financial reality of your life post-divorce. If the answer is no to any of the above questions, try to build your savings or find a higher-paying job to ensure you can afford to support yourself and your family after your divorce.