In the Orlando area, you have many choices to consider when deciding whether to proceed with a dissolution of marriage and whether to hire an attorney. This guide outlines the major expenses to evaluate so you can decide what may and may not be worth paying for in your Florida divorce case.
Initial Consultation
First, decide whether you want to pay for a consultation or use a free consultation. Check an attorney’s credentials and client reviews online to determine whether it is worth paying to consult with that attorney. Then, decide whether you want the consultation by phone, Zoom, or live in person. Some people prefer the convenience of a telephone call or Zoom. Others want to meet the attorney in person and speak with them face to face.
Attorney Retainer and Hourly Rates
Before hiring an attorney, find out whether the retainer is refundable or nonrefundable. You should also ask:
- Must the retainer be paid in one lump sum?
- Does the attorney offer payment plans?
- Are you expected to pay the full amount of your attorney’s fees every month?
- What are the hourly rates for the attorney and staff?
Attorneys in Orlando charge anywhere from $300 to $500 an hour.
Method of Divorce
Decide whether you want to proceed through collaborative divorce or through the court system. You should also consider whether the divorce can be resolved through a marital settlement agreement, mediation, or court hearings.
Child-Related Expenses
If you have children, consider whether your case requires any of the following:
- A guardian ad litem for the children
- A social investigation or custody evaluation
- A psychological evaluation if you allege that your spouse has mental illness or substance abuse disorder
All these evaluations can be costly. You need to decide whether they are worth the amount you will pay.
Financial Experts, Valuations, and Appraisals
Decide whether you need a financial expert. Is this a simple divorce with minor assets or a complicated financial divorce? Consider whether:
- Assets need to be found or valued
- A business needs to be valued
- You need an appraisal of a house
A house appraisal can cost between $450 and $1,400, depending on the acreage involved.
Can You Afford the Case?
It is important to discuss these decisions with the attorney upfront. At the time you hire an attorney, you need to know whether you can afford the legal work your case may require. Consider:
- Do you have credit cards you can use to pay for the case?
- Do you have relatives you can borrow from to finance the case?
These are all matters to address upfront during the initial consultation. Understanding the possible costs and available payment arrangements will help you decide which services and experts are worth paying for in your divorce case.
If you have more questions regarding a Marital and Family Law matter, you may call Ann Marie Giordano Gilden at Ann Marie Giordano Gilden, P.A. at 407-732-7620 and set an initial consultation.
This article is for informational purposes only and does not form an attorney client privilege.