Your marriage has fallen apart. It is time to make an important decision to move forward, but before you can do that, the first step is to deal with the intricate legal process. Divorces can be challenging for many reasons, but with an experienced Brookfield divorce lawyer on your side, you have less to worry about. The legal paperwork, which can take considerable time, is no longer your concern, and your lawyer will also help make the right decisions about critical issues. For many people, the cost of hiring a family law attorney is often the biggest fear, and in this post, we are discussing this aspect in detail.
An uncontested divorce
If you and your spouse have managed to discuss and agree on major issues, such as asset distribution and child custody, you can file for an uncontested divorce. An uncontested divorce is simple and doesn’t take as much time. Wisconsin has a waiting time of 120 days, but in the real world, most divorces take at least a few months, as county courts often handle a considerable volume of matters. Your lawyer will likely charge a fixed rate for an uncontested divorce, which will be mentioned in advance. You are still responsible for other expenses, such as the filing fee.
A contested divorce
If there is no agreement on essential things, you will need a lawyer to argue on your behalf in court. While mediation is always an option, some cases require a trial. In such cases, divorce lawyers have to work extensively hard and spend more hours. The norm is an hourly rate along with a retainer fee. Contested divorces can take months or even years, which will only add to the cost of the process. Make sure that you know the expenses so that you are sure of affording an attorney in the long run.
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Other things to know
Just because a family lawyer charges more doesn’t mean their expertise is unequaled. More often than not, law firms work to help clients and do everything possible to keep expenses in check. Find a divorce lawyer who understands your situation and is willing to go the extra mile to protect your rights. If that means paying more for their services, you will unlikely regret the decision.
Call a divorce lawyer as soon as you decide to initiate the legal work and draft the documents. You can expect them to take over as you focus on other things.
