The cost of a divorce in Utah can vary greatly depending on the process chosen for the divorce. In Utah, you can file for divorce on your own. However, the court forms can often create more problems in the future that become costly (emotionally and financially) to fix.
Other than a “do-it-yourself “divorce, there are three primary ways to get a divorce: litigation/going to court, mediation, and collaborative divorce. Each of these processes has different costs associated with them.
Litigation
Litigation is the traditional process for getting a divorce. It is also the most expensive divorce process. In a litigated divorce, you and your spouse are unable to make important decisions and let a judge decide for you. The cost of a litigated divorce can vary greatly depending on the complexity of the case, but on average, it can be $30,000 or more.
The high cost of litigation is due to the time attorneys spend preparing for and attending court hearings. There may also be costs associated with hiring experts to testify on behalf of each party.
Mediation
Mediation is a process where a neutral third party helps the parties reach an agreement on the terms of the divorce. The cost of mediation in Utah is generally much less than litigation, with an average cost of $3,000 to $5,000.
The cost of mediation is lower because the parties are working together to come to an agreement, which often takes less time than a litigated divorce. Additionally, there are no court fees associated with mediation other than the fee to file a petition for divorce, and the parties can often split the cost of the mediator.
Collaborative Divorce
Collaborative divorce is a process where you and your attorneys work together to reach an agreement on the terms of the divorce. The cost of collaborative divorce in Utah is generally higher than mediation, with an average cost of $7,500 to $15,000.
The higher cost of collaborative divorce is to cover the involvement of attorneys, who work together to help you reach an agreement. There are also costs associated with hiring neutral experts to help in financial decisions, communication, and parenting issues.
Divorce in Utah
The cost of a divorce in Utah can vary greatly depending on the process chosen. When deciding on the process for your divorce, it is important to consider the costs associated with each option, as well as the specific needs and circumstances of your case. It is also important to consult with an experienced family law attorney who can help you understand the costs and benefits of each process and help you make an informed decision.
Schedule a Consultation with an Experienced Utah Divorce Attorney
For more information regarding divorce and divorce processes, contact Utah family law attorney Diana Telfer at (801) 464-4004 to schedule a consultation.