It’s no secret that the divorce process can be expensive,
but many people don’t realize that the process can be less expensive if you plan
and prepare accordingly. Some of the costs associated with divorce are
associated with hiring an attorney and dealing with the courts; other costs are
related to the burden one half of a couple must take on when a secondary source
of income is no longer contributing.
Couples who can work through the divorce process together
might consider collaborative divorce, which can be a less expensive, and less
contentious, way to secure a divorce. The alternative to collaborative divorce
often includes litigation, which can be an extremely expensive and
time-consuming process.
You might also consider hiring an attorney for a limited
representation, which might mean that you and your
soon-to-be ex fill out the forms on the state’s website and then each work with
an attorney before submitting them to the court to double check your documents
and make sure everything is accurate.
In addition to finding ways to minimize costs related to
attorneys and courts, you should begin to plan as early as possible for the
financial transition you will endure when you are on your own. One of the most
important things you can do is establish a budget that includes all of your
potential expenses so you’re aware of how much you will need to meet your
needs. Here’s
a good article on why budgeting is so important.