Last Updated on: 28th July 2023, 07:15 pm

Understanding the Costs of Getting Divorced in New York

Getting divorced in New York can be complicated and expensive. With legal fees, filing costs, asset division, and more, many wonder: how much does a divorce really cost in New York? Here’s a look at the key factors that influence the total cost of divorce in the state.

Attorney’s Fees

This is often the biggest expense of divorce. New York attorneys typically bill by the hour, with rates ranging from $200-$500+ per hour depending on experience and firm reputation. Simple, uncontested divorces may cost $2,000-$5,000 total. But costs increase for complex or contested cases involving litigation, extensive assets, or child custody disputes. High net worth divorce fees can exceed $50,000.

You can reduce legal costs by:

– Finding an experienced attorney with reasonable rates for your area.
– Being organized and efficient with your lawyer’s time.
– Trying mediation before litigation. This can save on legal fees.
– Opting for an unbundled/limited scope arrangement for specific tasks.

Filing Fees

It costs $210 to file a divorce Summons with Notice or Summons and Verified Complaint in New York. The filing fee is $125 for lower income individuals. Other potential filing costs:

– Request for judicial intervention: $95-$300
– Note of issue: $125-$300
– Judgment filing: $125-$210

Service Fees

Serving divorce papers on your spouse costs $45-$140. This is done by the sheriff, process server, or a licensed agent.

Asset Division

Equitably dividing property, financial accounts, real estate, businesses, and other marital assets often involves appraisers, business valuators, accountants, pension experts, and financial professionals. Their fees range from $150 per hour upwards.

Complex asset division with multiple properties or business interests can cost tens of thousands in additional fees. The more assets in dispute, the higher the costs.

Child Custody Disputes

Contested child custody fights involve custody evaluations ($5,000+), depositions, site visits, and sometimes expert testimony from psychologists, counselors or social workers ($200-$500 per hour).

Appointing an attorney for the child also adds costs. Expect at least $10,000+ in fees for a contested New York child custody case.

Temporary Support

During the divorce process, one spouse may pay temporary alimony or child support. These monthly payments affect the budget until final orders are issued.

Mediation Fees

Many couples mediate divorce details before litigation. Mediation costs $200-$500 per hour. If it helps avoid a trial, mediation can save substantially on total costs.

Trial

Contested divorces sometimes go to trial before a judge. Trial fees for each spouse often exceed $25,000. There are also court reporter and trial prep costs.

Post-Judgment Modifications

After divorce, either party can file to modify alimony, child support, or custody arrangements. Modification hearings incur more legal fees and court costs.

How to Get Affordable Help

For most couples, divorce costs between $5,000 to $15,000 on average when mediated or uncontested. But there are ways to get help with divorce at lower cost:

– Seek free or low-cost legal assistance through legal aid or clinics
– Use low-bono programs that provide reduced fee arrangements
– Hire an attorney on a limited scope basis for document drafting only
– Use online DIY divorce software then pay an attorney hourly to review

Avoid nickel-and-diming your divorce at all costs. The right lawyer can help minimize expense and fight to protect your interests. Don’t sacrifice quality representation solely to save money.

For a free consultation on the cost of divorce in NY, contact our office today. We’ll assess your situation, provide cost estimates, and discuss money-saving options to fit different budgets.