How much should a NY Divorce cost?

28Dec/110

The maximum legal fees for a NY divorce for families with assets below 2 mil and 2 reasonable people should be $10,000. Why?

The only reason for a lawyer in divorce is to formalize and file your agreement that you make. You don't need charlatan mediators or collaborative crooks, you need a spreadsheet and a therapist to get the job done and a lawyer to consult and file.

Here are the easy steps to getting divorced without a lawyer.

1) list all assets and debts, both parties must obtain and submit credit reports to each other.

2) divide post-marital assets as close to 50/50 as possible. Look up the ny state value of any licenses obtained in marriage.

3) decide on a plan of action for living arrangements. Don't be afraid to do unconventional things like living separately in the same house.

4) work out a regular schedule for the children. Children need regularity and there is no one size fits all for time sharing. Don't let anyone tell to what works for your family. Some switch weeks, some days, some weekends, whatever works agree on it and formalize it.

5) agree on a path to resolve differences, a therapist is a great idea for this role.

6) if you have joint custody agree on final decision making for education an healthcare and a method to voice concerns to ensure that both parties are heard in critical decisions

7) look up ny state child support obligation rates on the Internet and agree to lay these numbers and re-evaluate every 3 years.
spousal maintenance should be a lump sum or at least 2 years. Most judges will order this so don't be stingy about it.