It’s easy to get lost in the emotional turmoil that surrounds you during a divorce. This can cause you to lose sight of the practical matters involved in the process. This includes attorney fees. During the divorce process, it’s important to keep your head clear, particularly when it comes to issues like legal fees.
One of the most frequently asked questions regarding divorce is, “Who pays for the divorce lawyers?” There isn’t a one-size-fits-all answer.
What should you know about where you stand and who could be liable for paying the divorce attorneys?
General Rule
The general rule is that the one who hired the divorce lawyer is the one responsible for paying the legal fees. Each spouse should expect to pay for their legal representation.
Of course, like many issues in divorce, this can lead to disputes. Legal fees add up quickly. If one person can’t keep up with the costs upfront, they might have to scale back their legal representation. And if one spouse feels as though the other is stretching out the process unnecessarily, it can cause hard feelings regarding the cost of divorce.
Exceptions to the Rule
In some special circumstances, the judge overseeing the divorce might order one spouse to pay the other spouse’s legal fees. This could be due to a variety of factors which your attorney can review with you before a request is made to the court.
Consensus on Legal Fees
If both spouses agree on the financial terms of the divorce, they might need only one lawyer.
It’s a great way to save money on legal costs, but this arrangement is often unsuitable if there are disagreements or complicated issues such as the division of assets or child custody.
Post-Divorce Litigation
In the event of a post-judgment dispute, it’s often the case that both parties need additional legal representation to protect their interest as post-divorce litigation can be lengthy and expensive.
Divorce is never an easy issue to navigate, particularly when it comes to financial affairs. One of the most frequently asked questions is, “Who pays for the divorce lawyer?”
Remember, legal fees can mount up. It’s essential to plan accordingly, prioritize expenses, and seek legal counsel early in the divorce process. With a clear plan of action, you’ll navigate through the divorce process calmly and confidently.
If you’d like to schedule a consultation or you have additional questions about the financial issues involved in divorce, we’re happy to help. Contact Geller Family Law at (813) 405-1509.
