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Divorcing out of Court - Saving Couples and Families Big Money

Written by: Diana Lucia Martinez

Reputation Level 14

Posted over 2 years ago. Applies to Los Angeles County, CA, 1 helpful vote, 1 comment

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Low Conflict Divorce

Litigation: both parties represented by attorneys charging $350/hour, some negotiation, and an uncontested final agreement (no trial): $35,000. Mediation: neutral mediator charging $375/hour, 3-three hour sessions, preparation of all paperwork, each party represented by consulting attorneys (document review and advice): $6,600. SAVINGS: $28,400, almost enough for 3 trips for two to Hawaii, two weeks, all inclusive package and a room with a view.

Contested divorce with child custody issues

Litigation: both parties represented by attorneys, settles right before trial: $117,000 Mediation: 6 three hour co-mediated (attorney-therapist mediation team) sessions at $425/hour, paperwork, and consulting attorneys: $12,975 SAVINGS: $104,025, enough to put two students through four years of undergraduate studies at Cal State Fullerton, living on campus.

High Conflict Divorce with contested child custody and financial issues

Litigation: both parties represented by attorneys, use of therapist evaluators and forensic valuation experts for community business and pension issues: $300,000. Mediation: 12 three hour co-mediated sessions, paperwork, two consulting attorneys, a neutral financial expert: $30,825. SAVINGS: $269,175, almost enough for a vacation home in Big Bear Lake (based on 2007 median price of $294,500).