If you are considering parting ways with your spouse, an uncontested divorce can save you a significant amount of time and money compared with a contested divorce. However, the answer to the question, “how much does an uncontested divorce cost?” isn’t always straightforward. While every divorce is unique, there can be many variables that impact the timeline of your case, and ultimately the cost.

Factors That Impact Uncontested Divorce Cost

Uncontested divorces in Michigan typically cost considerably less than contested divorces. Critically, if spouses can cooperate and resolve the issues that must be determined in order for a judge to issue the final decree, a divorce action will be considered “uncontested,” and a trial would not be necessary. But it’s important to understand that there are still various factors that can drive the costs of an uncontested matter.

Several factors that can impact uncontested divorce cost can include the following:

• Issues in the case: Cases where there are minor children involved take longer to resolve, increasing the fees associated with divorce. In addition, if there are complex property issues, significant debt, business assets, or retirement accounts, negotiations may be lengthy.
• Whether the case is uncontested from the outset: A divorce may be uncontested from the outset or move to the uncontested track once a settlement has been reached. The earlier a couple resolves the issues that must be determined, the fewer expenses that will be incurred.
• Expenses associated with mediation or the collaborative process: If mediation or the collaborative process was used to reach a settlement in the case, these fees will impact the overall costs of an uncontested divorce. However, these costs are typically much less than those that would be incurred in a contested case that proceeds through the litigation process.
• Filing fees and court costs: Although an uncontested divorce avoids spending a considerable amount of time in court, there are still court filing fees, service of process fees, and other costs that must be paid. However, these fees are considerably less than those in a contested case involving extensive discovery, motion practice, and multiple hearings.
• Attorney rates: Your attorney’s fee structure can impact how much the overall cost of your case will be. In addition to charging an hourly rate, most attorneys will also request a retainer to be paid upfront which fees will be deducted from as the case progresses.
• Whether the case becomes contested: If a resolution cannot be reached and the case becomes contested, the parties can expect their costs to increase substantially.

While every case is different, it can be difficult to know the cost of a divorce case at the commencement. However, cooperation between spouses and early settlement can help ensure a case is resolved efficiently and cost-effectively on the uncontested track.

How to Reduce Divorce Costs

The best way to keep divorce costs down is to proceed uncontested. Notably, arguing over minor issues will only increase the amount of time your divorce takes and drive up the overall costs. By finding middle ground and cooperating regarding the issues of property division, spousal support, child custody, and child support, spouses can help ensure their case is resolved efficiently and cost-effectively.

Spouses can use mediation to settle any issues that must be resolved prior to filing for divorce. With mediation, a third party called a mediator, works to facilitate communication between spouses and help them reach a mutually agreeable resolution. While the goal of mediation is to encourage cooperation, this process can also help spouses maintain amicability by focusing on solutions rather than conflict. This can help reduce conflict and the costs that can come with it.

Similarly, collaborative divorce is an out-of-court process that focuses on resolving issues through mutual agreement and avoiding costly litigation. It uses a team of professionals who can help spouses make informed decisions regarding the issues that must be determined. Depending on the issues in the case, a collaborative team can include mental health professionals, child custody experts, financial neutrals, appraisers, and divorce coaches. By relying on the guidance provided by this team of experts and having a commitment to out-of-court resolution, spouses can minimize conflict, avoid the cost of litigation, and achieve a comprehensive settlement that works for the whole family.

Contact an Experienced Michigan Uncontested Divorce Attorney

If you have concerns about uncontested divorce cost and expenses, it’s best to consult with a knowledgeable divorce attorney who can assess your case. Based in Howell, Michigan, Bergmans Law P.C. handles a broad scope of divorce matters throughout Livingston, Genesee, Ingham, and Washtenaw Counties and surrounding areas. Providing dedicated counsel and trusted representation, Henry Bergmans is committed to helping clients resolve the issues in their divorce cases amicably and out of court whenever possible. Please reach out to learn more about the firm’s divorce services through the online contact form or by calling 810-442-4107.