Going through a divorce can be an expensive endeavor, especially if it’s a complex case that drags on for a long time. To help clients ease their financial obligations, some Virginia Beach divorce lawyers offer payment plans. Divorce lawyer payment plans can be in the form of fixed payments, subscription-based payments, or retainers, among others.
Do Divorce Lawyers Offer Payment Plans?
Divorces can take some time to complete, and during that period, couples will continue to incur costs, which can leave a serious dent in one’s finances. Divorce lawyers offer payment plans to help clients manage the financial load that comes with separation procedures.
Some lawyers require fixed payments that can be paid as a one-time package. Other lawyers employ subscription-based payments, where clients pay fees on a monthly, quarterly, bi-annual, or annual basis. Some attorneys rely on retainers, and some use good-faith retainers that their clients can exhaust during their contract, with extra payments charged thereafter.
Benefits of Paying Via a Payment Plan
Opting for a divorce lawyer that offers a payment plan is beneficial for two main reasons:
One–it lessens the strain on a person’s financial accounts. Divorces are already a stressful undertaking, and having to deal with large payments can aggravate the situation. Having a payment plan will make finances more predictable and affordable, and could help clients better focus and engage on pressing matters of the divorce.
Two–a payment plan allows clients to maximize the services of their lawyers to their advantage. If plagued by too many expenses, a person may decide to cut legal aid prematurely before a solution can be made. With financing options, attorneys can do their job without putting too much financial burden on their clients.
Tips to Lower Divorce Payments
There are several options that couples can take to finance their divorce. They can use their personal savings, borrow money from loved ones, take out a personal loan, or use their credit card to manage payments.
Clients should weigh these options properly, especially if they’re thinking of how to avoid discovery in divorce as these may call in some questions. Despite these channels, however, divorce payments can still rack up and take a toll on one’s financial resources. To help lift the weight, here are some tips to lower divorce payments:
Seek Free or Low-Cost Legal Aid
You may qualify for free or reduced-cost legal aid from non-profit organizations, bar associations, or law schools if your income is below a certain threshold. If you’re also unable to pay for court filing fees, these expenses (which can range from $200 to $400) may be waived. That said, these low-cost services may have a long waiting list, which could be a deterrent for those who need an attorney as soon as possible.
Consider Mediation
Mediation is a good alternative for couples who believe they can amicably resolve issues and come to an agreement without intervention from a court. Hiring a mediator generally costs less than getting a lawyer, and the process may be quicker, which could entail less recurring fees. Mediation, however, is only a viable option for non-complex divorces.
Negotiate with an Attorney
Some divorce attorneys may offer financing options that could make fees more accessible and manageable. There may even be lawyers available who agree to take fees from assets or winnings after settling.
Get Court-Ordered Reimbursement
In some states, judges can order one spouse to reimburse the other’s legal fees in a divorce. Getting this type of court order may be possible if one party’s income is significantly higher than the other’s, or if one party is being uncooperative during the divorce process.
Divorce Lawyer Payment Plans Are Available with Coastal Virginia Law
At Coastal Virginia Law, we understand how a divorce can take a significant toll on a person’s physical and emotional wellbeing. Having to deal with the financial obligations that come with the arduous process can add a lot of stress to the situation, which can be unproductive and lead to unwanted outcomes.
This is why we offer divorce lawyer payment plans to our clients. We hope that by making payments more manageable, we can offer advice and guidance while allowing clients to feel more at ease with their expenses. Get in touch to learn more about our divorce services today!