Are you going through the divorce process and have questions about life after filing for divorce? Contact our Buffalo attorney today.
The First Step in the Divorce Process
If you’re contemplating a divorce, your first goal is to select your attorney.- Advice from co-workers, friends, or relatives who might have been through a divorce is of little value, because every situation is unique.
- Meeting with an attorney ensures that you receive guidance tailored to your situation.
- For a fee of $150, I offer a consultation which includes a personal meeting during which you will receive an overview of relevant New York State law, guidance in selecting options for how to proceed, and an estimate of the amount of my retainer.
- That initial fee will probably be the best money you spend because it will give you an opportunity to learn about divorce law and unload some of the stress in your situation.
How Long Does a Divorce Take
- If the spouses are cooperative, their divorce can be completed in a few months.
- When spouses are completely uncooperative, their divorce may drag on for years.
- The longer your divorce goes on, the more money it will cost.
- Based on what might be called a typical case, my practice is able to wrap up most divorces in six to nine months, when both parties are reasonable.
- The process carries a certain amount of anxiety, but it can be shortened when both sides are willing to move forward toward a resolution.
Reaching an Amicable Resolution
- People often say they have reached an amicable resolution with their spouse regarding their divorce.
- No court proceedings may have taken place, but couples have discussed houses, children, and other important issues and believe they have reached a resolution, so we prepare an agreement for both sides to sign.
- In New York State, a lawyer can represent only one spouse and, although it is not considered appropriate for both spouses to meet with one attorney, one spouse can meet with a lawyer and have a property settlement agreement drafted, reviewed by the other spouse, and signed.
- This cooperative approach, which can expedite matters and keep the couple out of court, still carries a certain amount of cost, along with certain costs involved in finishing the divorce process.
- New York State requires specific filing fees and there is no way around paying a fee for the divorce; however, costs can be minimized by reaching such a resolution.
Contested Divorce Process
- Most New York State divorces follow a contested track, but that doesn’t necessarily indicate a major conflict.
- A contested divorce is one in which both sides have hired attorneys and the parties have one or more unresolved issues.
Are you or a loved one going through the divorce process and have questions about life after filing for divorce? Contact our dedicated Buffalo family law attorneys today for a confidential consultation. We welcome the opportunity to help you and your family reach the resolution you want.
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