Divorce can be a financially burdensome process. However, for couples seeking to separate with minimal expense, it is possible to divorce “on the cheap,” – relatively speaking – provided that both parties are willing to cooperate and take a streamlined approach to ending their marriage.
While cost-saving measures can make the process more affordable, it’s important to balance financial considerations with ensuring a fair and legally sound outcome. Therefore, if you are thinking about pursuing a divorce, you’ll want to carefully assess your needs and goals before committing to any particular course of action.
Common types of affordable divorces
It is not uncommon for divorces to cost tens of thousands of dollars or more overall. However, not every divorce needs to be this expensive. Common approaches to divorce that are usually far more cost-effective than traditional litigation include the following:
- Uncontested divorce: An uncontested divorce, where both parties agree on the terms of their settlement before it is approved by a judge, is one of the most cost-effective ways to divorce. Since there is no need for prolonged court battles or extensive legal fees, uncontested divorces are typically faster and cheaper than litigation.
- Mediation: Mediation allows divorcing couples to resolve disputes with the help of a neutral third party. Mediators help facilitate discussions and agreements, which can then be formalized into a legally binding divorce settlement. This process is often much cheaper than going to court and promotes a cooperative approach to resolving conflicts.
- Limited scope representation: Hiring an attorney for specific aspects of the divorce process, such as drafting documents or providing legal guidance concerning complex issues, can save money compared to full representation. This approach gives people access to legal assistance where it’s most needed while keeping overall costs low.
While it is possible to divorce on a budget, cutting corners can result in negative long-term consequences. As a result, it’s important to think carefully about where cost-cutting measures make sense during divorce and when they might result in greater financial burdens down the road.
