WAYS TO REDUCE YOUR DIVORCE FEES
Divorces in Virginia can range from a variety of figures in the thousands, depending upon the matters involved, and if the parties are able to agree or not. During this life transition, many people are invested in saving money as they get on their feet independently from their spouse. Gainesville, Virginia divorce lawyer Michelle Hopkins shares some insight on how to minimize your legal fees below.
Settle
The most cost-effective way to divorce is to settle. If you and your former spouse are able to agree upon the terms of your divorce, you will save thousands.
If you are unable to agree, attempt settlement letters between your respective counsels, or mediation. You may be able to fully or partially settle utilizing one of these methods. Even only having to litigate on one or two items that you simply cannot agree upon is far less costly than a full Equitable Distribution Trial.
Be Responsive and Efficient
Lawyers bill time spent on your case based upon their hourly rates. To keep your divorce from becoming prohibitively expensive, think about ways to be efficient when communicating with your lawyer and their staff. For example:
- When communicating with your lawyer’s office, consolidate matters into one phone call or email whenever possible.
- Contact your lawyer with legal questions, but email or call the paralegal on your case to speak with an individual who bills at a lower rate when you need to provide basic information or simple updates on your case. As time goes on, you will develop an understanding of when to reach out to the attorney versus the paralegal on your case.
- If your lawyer’s office reaches out to you, be sure to reply as soon as possible or at least within twenty-four hours. If they are reaching out to you for input or your position on something they need to do to move forward, replying promptly would save you from paying for follow up communications to get your answer.
Do It Yourself
You may believe it would be less expensive to file for divorce yourself without a lawyer, but if you make mistakes, it will be even more expensive to fix what was done incorrectly. The best way to prevent paying extra legal fees to right wrongs, and pushing the timeline of completion for your divorce, is to do it right the first time by hiring an experienced attorney.
How Can The Hopkins Law Firm Help Me?
The Hopkins Law Firm lawyers Michelle Hopkins, Sydney Remaily, and Tyler Melton are ready to assist you with your legal matters in Prince William County, Virginia and surrounding areas. Please do not hesitate to contact their office today at 571-248-2210 or info@mhopkinslaw.com to schedule a consultation. Michelle Hopkins and her legal team are waiting to help you!