It’s commonplace to get a lawyer for your divorce process, but what if you and your spouse already agree on everything? Do you still need a lawyer if this is the case? The short answer is both yes and no. Yes, you do need a lawyer if you want to receive the best legal advice to help you avoid any major pitfalls of a “DIY” divorce. Let’s look at how a divorce lawyer can help you in Apache Junction, AZ.
Reasons To Hire A Divorce Lawyer In Apache Junction
Here are a few of the most common reasons why couples choose to hire a divorce attorney for their cases.
Help Including Everything In The Divorce Agreement
Most couples do believe they agree on everything but are likely unaware of what “everything” means. A lot of separating spouses are not aware of what should or must be included in a thorough divorce agreement. It’s simply not enough to say that you are splitting everything right down the middle, including time spent with your children.
You will need to include a detailed parenting schedule, as well as specifics about spousal maintenance and child support, if applicable. Provisions regarding life insurance, the division of retirement accounts and the sale of any property should also be included. These are only some of the issues that need to be finalized in a divorce agreement!
The team at DeTorres&DeGeorge says, “It is essential that you work with an experienced attorney who can help you create a divorce settlement agreement that is complete and covers all of the issues and agreements involved in your divorce.”
A Lawyer Will Properly Draft The Divorce Agreement
It’s perfectly fine for you to create your own divorce agreement but it must be noted that this agreement will govern your rights and obligations in the future. If you plan to create your own agreement, you should still consider working with a lawyer to review the agreement, at the very least. If you can complete legal paperwork and interpret statuses, you don’t technically need a lawyer for this process. If the reverse is true, though, you will want to have a lawyer by your side.
Take this advice from AndrewFicherLaw: “One misplaced word in the agreement may result in major unintended consequences down the road. Divorce lawyers are trained in legal writing and analysis, and will make sure the agreement is drafted properly.”
Help Preventing You From Signing An Unfair Agreement
Some spouses worry that a divorce lawyer may change their agreement, but most lawyers are willing to accept their client’s decision to enter an agreement that may not represent their best case scenario. Lawyers will agree to the set terms as long as they are comfortable that their client understands the implications of said agreement.
If a lawyer believes an agreement to be unfair, he/she will tell you prior to finalizing it. At this point in the process, it’s up to the client to decide how to proceed.
How Much Does A Divorce Lawyer Cost In Apache Junction?
In a recent survey, 85% of respondents had the same legal team deal with their divorce case from the beginning all the way to the end. This is commonly referred to as full-scope representation. The remaining respondents reported hiring attorneys on a consulting basis. In these cases, the lawyers may have helped in some of the following ways: reviewing a portion of the case, giving legal advice, or reviewing and preparing a settlement agreement.
The average cost per hour reported by the respondents ranged from $200-$300. Here is a look at average retainer fees for divorce lawyers:
- Lowest Cost: $2,000.
- Average Cost: $3,500.
- Highest Cost: $5,000.
*These are cost estimates. Contact the experienced team at High Desert Family Law Group for more information!
What Will A Divorce Lawyer Retainer Fee Cover?
Below are five of the most common costs that can be billed against a lawyer retainer fee.
Attorney Fees
It’s no secret that lawyers charge for their time and expertise when handling legal matters. These fees are typically charged by the hour, making up the biggest expense of your divorce case.
The hourly rate may vary based on the lawyer’s expertise, experience, and complexity of the case. Your lawyer will keep track of the time he or she spends on your case, including emails, phone calls, research, meetings, and court appearances.
Court Expenses
Court costs incurred by the lawyer can include filing fees, deposition fees, expert witness fees, and other costs related to litigation.
Administrative Costs
These are expenses incurred by the lawyer for tasks like copying, postage, and making long-distance calls.
Paralegal Fees
Paralegal time is typically billed hourly, similar to how lawyers bill for their services. Of course, these hourly rates are usually lower, making this a cost-effective way to handle some specific tasks.
Travel Expenses
These are fees incurred by the divorce lawyer for any travel related to your legal matter. This can include mileage, airfare, hotel accommodations, and rental car costs.
Source: “Do I Need A Divorce Lawyer If We Agree On Everything?” Andrew Fischer Law Do I Need a Divorce Lawyer If We Agree on Everything? – Law Office of Andrew R. Fischer
Divorce Lawyers In Apache Junction, AZ
The High Desert Family Law Group should be your first choice when you need the best divorce lawyer in Scottsdale or Phoenix, Arizona. Our experienced family law attorneys will work with you to obtain the best possible outcome in your situation. Proven trial lawyers in family court, you can trust the firm to represent you fully so you can get on with your life. Call today for your initial consultation.
