How Long Will My Divorce Take & How Much Will it Cost Me
As a lawyer practicing Family & Matrimonial law almost exclusively for more than 30 years, there are two (2) things that new clients typically ask me most: How long will their divorce take and, how much will it cost them. While each family is different and there is no “one size fits all” when it comes to divorce, there are many ways by which you can help manage how long the process takes and more importantly, how much it costs you.
Here are some ways to help you manage time and cost:
Provide Your Attorney With a Detailed Written History of Your Relationship/Marriage
Unless yours is a simple uncontested divorce (think: W-2 wage earners without children and with limited property), you should take the time to give your attorneys as much personal background and financial information as you can, even if they do not ask for it from you in writing. While I am very sensitive to the fact that this can be very difficult for a client to do emotionally, without question, my ability to best represent a client has been by hearing their “voice” and in their words how they got here, and what they need and want. Remember, you need to be your own best advocate and, in addition to helping your case, it will even be cathartic.
Limit/Combine Emails (& Calls) to Your Attorney Wherever Possible
Except of course for urgent, pressing, or time-sensitive matters, save and combine the questions you have for your attorney in a single (e.x.: weekly or bi-weekly) email, instead of sending a separate email each time you think of a question or have a thought. Not only are you being charged for each email, but your attorney is less likely to miss and, more able to efficiently track important information as they work on your case, when not going back and forth between multiple emails strings with you, often in the same day. You can do this by keeping a list of questions in the notes app on your mobile phone or, in a draft email on your phone or computer and, sending once weekly, or after a few days. Also, don’t forget to change all the passwords on your mobile phone, I-Pad, computer or other devices to something your spouse cannot guess, so all your communications are kept private.
Be Your Best Paralegal
Collect and provide financial documentation and other information requested by your lawyer in as timely a manner as possible. Keep a checklist, I find that they are very helpful.
Make Decisions Not From a Place of Fear or Anger, Which Will Benefit You Long-Term
In a nutshell, unless you have a good reason not to, trust your attorney’s experience and guidance in determining how best to handle your matter. Litigate only when needed and of course, when your attorney believes you can win. Avoid acting out of emotion and engaging in “scorched earth” tactics that will only cost you financially and emotionally, as well as potentially damage your children.
Feel free to contact us if you would like to see how The Isaacs Firm can help you.
