The High Cost of Divorce in California: How Much Does It Really Cost?

Posted on: March 11, 2020

The High Cost of Divorce in California: How Much Does It Really Cost?

If you are considering a divorce in California, there are likely many issues running through your mind. One of them may be the cost of divorce – and we are not just talking about the monetary cost, we are also talking about the emotional cost of divorce. Read on to learn more about this issue and then contact Law Office of Michael L. Fell at (949) 585-9055 to speak with a family law attorney.

The Cost Doesn’t Just Affect the Couple Getting Divorced

It is important to remember that others can be affected by divorce. If you have children who still live in the home, there are steps you can take to minimize the effect on them but there will be one. That said, it is often better to have two parents living separately who are happy and healthy than living with who parents whose relationship has become toxic. Remember – your kids see a lot more than you think they do.

California is a No-Fault State but it is Not That Simple

It is true that California is a no-fault state, which means that the spouse filing for divorce does not have to prove that their spouse was guilty of wrongdoing in order to get a divorce. This can lower the price and cost of divorce in some ways, but it can also make it more complicated.

For example, consider a situation in which one of the spouses was not faithful within the marriage. This does not need to be brought up in order to get the divorce, but it can be used in other factors of the divorce. As a result, divorce can have a high cost in that it can result in your privacy no longer being respected or kept.

Divorces Are Most Expensive When You Cannot Agree on the Terms

In most cases, if you can your spouse can agree on spousal support, child support, child custody, and the division of property, your case is going to be much easier – and much less expensive – than a case that must be litigated. When divorces go to litigation, two attorneys will argue before a family law judge and that family law judge will have the final say. This takes up time, resources, and money.

Divorce Mediation is a More Affordable Option

If you and your spouse can agree on the terms of your divorce then you may try divorce mediation. This is much less expensive in every way imaginable; it costs less financially and it costs less emotionally as you will not have to deal with the hassle of a trial.

At Law Office of Michael L. Fell we can help you with all types of legal separations, divorce mediation, divorce litigation, and various agreements including custody, alimony, and other types of support. We suggest you contact us at (949) 585-9055 as soon as possible to learn about your options.