You may have heard people mention how expensive the divorce process can be and got curious. Or, you may currently be going through a divorce. If the latter is true, then you’ll likely want more details about these infamous cost rumors.
For example, how much does the entire divorce process cost, and what factors affect the cost? But before you cross that bridge, you’ll want to know what the average retainer fee for a divorce lawyer is in Virginia.
A specific answer to this question depends on the circumstances of the divorce. For example, some law firms are more expensive than others. Some attorneys charge a $1,000 retainer while others charge $5,000 or more.
So, depending on the law firm you approach and the specific details of your case, you can expect to pay a retainer of between $2,500 and $5,000.
How Much Does A Divorce Lawyer Cost In Virginia?
Most people who’re looking to break off their marriages hire attorneys to handle the entire divorce process. As such, the bills can quickly add up. Overall, you may end up paying between $10,000 and $15,000 for a divorce. Of course, each divorce is unique; so you may end up paying significantly more or less than the average.
More complex cases naturally require more money. For example, people who don’t know the difference between annulment and divorce are usually surprised when they have to pay more for one than they would for the other.
The type and number of friction points between you and your soon-to-be ex-spouse also affect the divorce price tag. Many divorcing couples fight over spousal support, child custody rights, and property or debt division.
These disputes rack up a huge bill, as your attorney will have to pore over financial records and put together strategies to give you the best possible outcome.
What Is A Divorce Attorney Retainer Fee?
A retainer fee is a deposit or down payment that many divorce attorneys require to start working on a case. It’s rarely an estimate of the total cost you’ll eventually pay to cover the entire divorce process. Once you pay the retainer, your divorce attorney is supposed to keep it in a trust account that’s separate from their business. They can then deduct their fees and administrative costs from the trust account. Your attorney usually sends you an account statement that shows what they’ve charged and deducted, so you can keep track of the costs.
A retainer fee is usually refundable, but you may have to pay a percentage as a handling fee. If the retainer runs out before the divorce is finalized, you will have to pay additional money into the trust account. On the other hand, you’ll likely get a refund if there’s any remaining money in the account after the divorce.
What Does An Attorney Retainer Fee Cover?
In addition to your attorney’s fees, a retainer fee typically covers court costs and other administrative costs. In cases where one spouse accuses the other of legal faults like adultery, a part of the retainer can go toward gathering proof for or against these claims.
Even small things, such as copying financial records may be covered here. It’s important to read and have your attorney explain the retainer agreement before you sign it.
The retainer agreement will also cover other details, including how your attorney should manage the trust account.
Conclusion
While divorce is a process that most people would rather avoid, it can sometimes become an inevitable part of life. In such cases, the process is made much easier by having a good attorney on your side.
Usually, the best attorneys don’t come cheap, but, fortunately, you don’t have to pay for the entire divorce process all at once. A retainer fee is typically all you need to get the ball rolling.
In Virginia, this can be any amount from $1,000 to more than $5,000. Once you pay the retainer, your attorney places the funds in a trust account, then starts deducting their fees and other costs as they come along. Read more here about how to file a divorce in VA.