National > Divorce > Divorce Act:How much does a divorce cost?There is no easy answer to this question. If you handle your divorce yourself, you will be able to keep the costs to a minimum. This will include a filing fee which will be in the region of $200 for commencing the action. There is no charge for all other documents filed after the petition. You will have to arrange to have the petition served on your spouse and this will cost a fee if you use someone to do this rather than doing it yourself. If you consult a lawyer, you may be quoted a set fee if the divorce appears straightforward. However, if unforeseen problems arise that lead to additional work for your lawyer, then the set fee may not hold. If your divorce is bitterly fought between the two of you, then it could take months (or years) to resolve, many court applications, and possibly a trial. In that case, your lawyer will charge you according to his or her hourly rate. You will be told of this rate when you first see the lawyer and you will probably be billed from time to time as your case goes on. Divorces like this may cost thousands of dollars.
June 2006 |
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