The average cost of a divorce lawyer is $100 to $400 an hour or $7,000 to $15,000 total. The price of a divorce lawyer varies by location, whether the divorce is contested, and if there are any custody disputes.

You will probably pay a retainer fee, or an upfront amount paid before any legal work begins. A retainer is based on the lawyer's hourly rate and acts as a down payment that covers the costs of future hours. Many divorce lawyers apply the retainer to the total bill. The size of the retainer depends on the issues discussed during a free consultation:

• Child custody
• Child support
• Alimony or spousal support
• The division of property
• The division of debts

A divorce lawyer helps file paperwork and negotiate the division of assets and custody during a divorce. If you can mediate every issue outside court, a divorce can cost a lot less than average and will be over sooner. If the divorce is amicable and you have no major assets or debts, you may be able to file the paperwork on your own. Just be aware that it is a time-consuming and frustrating process and may be delayed further if there are any mistakes in the paperwork.

You should hire a divorce attorney if your case is complicated or there is little chance of arranging terms without outside mediation. Common reasons for hiring a divorce lawyer include:

• Child custody disputes
• Child support disputes
• Excessive debts
• Significant assets (e.g., cash, car, or house)

Divorce lawyers do not typically work on contingency, which means receiving a percentage of a settlement only if they win the case. Instead, divorce lawyers commonly charge per hour or work on retainer. Discuss fees and payment options with your lawyer before any casework begins.

Both parties usually hire different divorce lawyers. This way, both parties are equally and objectively represented by someone who will advocate for them. Each party is responsible for the cost of their own representation.

Start by searching our list of divorce lawyers, then:

• Get 3+ estimates from different firms to compare.
• Read reviews about previous cases on Thervo and Google.
• Choose a lawyer with a good reputation and experience.
• Verify that they passed the bar and are able to represent you.
• Get a written estimate and contract before any casework begins.
• Follow a payment plan instead of making large payments up front.

When looking for a divorce lawyer near you, consider asking the following questions:

• How long have you been practicing law?
• When did you pass the bar?
• Do you give free consultations?
• Are you able to take on new clients at this time?
• What are your rates? Do you charge by the hour, or do you work on contingency?
• Will you give me a contract in writing?