Typical divorce proceedings can be expensive enough that it becomes difficult for some people to file for divorce. Fortunately, there are some more affordable options that still let clients gain the advantage of working with an experienced family law attorney. This article will review some of the affordable options that couples can pursue.

Mediation

Many couples who disagree on just a few issues associated with divorce and who can negotiate matters amicably decide to use mediation. This process involves a mediator who helps couples resolve matters in an amicable manner. Statistics have shown that mediation is likely to result in a better post-divorce relationship. Mediation also has less of a detrimental effect on any children that might be involved. Mediation offers several benefits including less stress on children, expedited divorce, reduced costs, and more discretion because mediation is private.

Unfortunately, there are also downsides to mediation including wasted money and time if the mediation process fails, the risk that decisions will be unfair to one of the spouses, the risk that an agreement that is not capable of being enforced will be created, or the risk that complete disclosures of a spouse’s financial status will not be made.

Collaboration

Similar to mediation, collaboration involves an attorney who helps to find a solution to a disagreement rather than a mediator. The collaboration process involves the divorcing couple retaining a lawyer who helps the couple resolve disagreements without proceeding through the litigation process.

Uncontested Divorce

Uncontested divorce is the least costly option for divorce and provides an option for couples who agree on most or all of the areas associated with a divorce including child custody, property distribution, and support payments. While an attorney is not necessary for the uncontested divorce process, experienced legal counsel can help determine issues like custody arrangements or how property should be handled. Uncontested divorces tend to follow the same process. First, a couple agrees on the terms of the divorce. Second, one spouse files a Petition for Divorce and the other spouse signs the Acknowledgment of Service and Consent to Jurisdiction document. Third, the state of Georgia requires that several additional documents be filed including a financial affidavit that gives full disclosure of a person’s financial situation. Fourth, provided that the divorce is uncontested and no minor children are involved, the divorce is finalized within 31 days after the divorce case is filed. Sometimes a hearing might be required in which one of the spouses is required to answer a few questions before a judge.

Speak with an Experienced Family Law Attorney

Each family and divorce is different. No matter what option you pursue with your divorce, the legal counsel at Vayman & Teitelbaum P.C. have the experience necessary to handle your divorce so that your situation resolves in the best possible manner. Contact our law office today to schedule an initial consultation, during which time we will discuss the various options available in your case.