HOW MUCH DOES IT COST TO GET A DIVORCE IN MICHIGAN?

When you file for a divorce, it’s best not to go through the process alone. Divorce attorneys have the knowledge and experience to walk you through the process and protect you and your assets while arguing for the best possible results for you and your family. There is a lot at stake, but a seasoned divorce lawyer knows how to guide you through it.

With every divorce, you must pay court fees, such as filing fees, process serving, witness preparation, and lawyer fees. These expenses all drive the average cost of a divorce in Michigan higher. However, the cost of a divorce attorney can vary widely based on factors such as where they practice, their experience, and their workload.

Since each case is unique and involves several factors, there is no set cost that someone going through a divorce can anticipate. So, when you begin looking for a divorce or child support lawyer, you should remember how much you can spend upfront because some attorneys will ask for a fee immediately.

Fees for Divorce Attorneys in Michigan

Attorneys will typically ask for payment based on hourly rates, retainers, or contingencies. Most attorneys charge hourly because it protects them in the event that their cases take longer than anticipated to resolve. For most divorce attorneys, hourly rates typically range between $100 and $500 per hour.

Often, lawyers will ask for a retainer, otherwise known as an up-front fee. The retainer is an advance payment for their hourly rates, and they can range from as little as $1,000 to as high as $10,000. The attorney will deduct from that account whenever they work on your case.

Divorce attorneys can also charge a flat fee, which is typical for uncontested divorces. If your attorney wants to charge a flat fee, you should discuss what that fee includes, so there are no surprises during the case. Remember, these are separate costs from court fees and filing fees.

Lawyers can also charge you for other services not discussed as part of the initial cost. This can include charges for things like travel time and phone calls. These additional attorney fees also vary significantly depending on the attorney and practice.

Additional Possible Legal Expenses After Divorce Proceedings

Unfortunately, the costs of a divorce in Michigan don’t always end after it’s finalized. Additional, ongoing expenses may include:

• child support
• spousal support
• child custody disputes
• disputes over retirement accounts
• discovery of financial documents that were omitted during the divorce process

It’s best to consider additional and ongoing expenses if there is a reasonable likelihood before a final judgment has been reached. This will help facilitate a straightforward divorce. Ongoing expenses may also incur additional court filing fees.

Paying Attorney and Court Fees in Michigan

As you can see, the divorce process can be expensive. Fortunately, there are options to help cover the cost of Michigan divorce lawyers and court filing fees. Here are a few:

• Personal Funds: You can pay for your divorce attorney fees using your personal savings or income. This method is more straightforward, but it may require already having significant savings.
• Marital Assets: If you and your spouse have joint assets, these can be used to cover attorney fees. Remember, though, that Michigan is an equitable distribution state. So, while courts may try to divide property fairly in a Michigan divorce, it won’t always be divided equally. Therefore, using marital assets for legal fees may be subject to negotiation or court approval. Still, it might be crucial for saving money.
• Payment Plans: Some attorneys may offer payment plans for a specific divorce case. This allows you to pay your divorce attorney’s fee in installments over time. Be sure to discuss this option with your respective attorneys.
• Credit Card: You can use a credit card to pay for attorney fees. Remember, you may be charged interest charges if the balance is not promptly paid in full.
• Legal Aid or Pro Bono Services: If you meet certain income eligibility requirements, you may qualify for free or low-cost legal services through legal aid organizations or pro bono programs. There are many Michigan divorce payment-assistance programs, but you’ll need a very specific divorce case to qualify.
• Mediation or Collaborative Divorce: These alternative dispute resolution methods can be less costly than traditional litigation. If you choose these routes, the fees may be lower, making it easier to pay.
• Contingency Fee Arrangements (Rare): In a few cases, attorneys may work on a contingency fee basis, but this is very uncommon in divorce cases.

Trusted Attorneys for the Divorce Process in Michigan

At Bailey Smith & Bailey, our divorce attorneys use their extensive experience and masterful skill to argue for men’s rights successfully. Whether you’re contemplating divorce or actively seeking representation, our attorney can give you valuable and honest advice to help you begin to see the light at the end of the tunnel. Contact us today to schedule a consultation.