Divorce lawyers
When you need a lawyer, and when you need less.
Full representation is right for some divorces and far too much for others. Here is what lawyers do, what they cost, and how to get the protection you need without paying for what you do not.
What a divorce lawyer does
Advises you on your rights, drafts and reviews documents, negotiates with your spouse or their lawyer, manages discovery, and represents you at hearings and trial.
What lawyers cost
Many family lawyers bill a few hundred dollars an hour and ask for a retainer up front. An uncontested case with a lawyer often costs a few thousand dollars; a contested case through trial can reach tens of thousands for each spouse.
When a lawyer is essential
- Domestic violence, threats or coercive control.
- Your spouse has a lawyer.
- Hidden income or assets, or a business to value.
- Disputed custody or a proposed move with the children.
- Large or complex retirement, pensions, stock options or property in several states.
Alternatives to full representation
- Limited scope help: a lawyer reviews your agreement or coaches you for a hearing.
- Mediation: a neutral helps you reach agreement.
- Attorney-backed plans: regular lawyer time plus a platform that does the legwork.
- An AI divorce lawyer: Counsel answers and drafts, and tells you when a licensed lawyer is needed.
How to choose
- Look for family law focus and experience in your county.
- Ask how they bill, what the retainer is and what is refundable.
- Ask whether they offer limited scope help.
- Choose someone who explains clearly and returns calls.
Questions to ask before you hire
- How many divorces like mine have you handled?
- What is your hourly rate, and who else will bill on my case?
- How do you prefer to settle rather than litigate?
- What do you expect this to cost, in a range?
Straight answers
Things people ask us first
Can one lawyer represent both of us?
No. A lawyer can represent only one spouse. A mediator can work with both of you as a neutral.
Is Counsel a lawyer?
Counsel is an AI divorce lawyer: software that explains the law and drafts documents. It is not a licensed attorney and cannot represent you.
What is limited scope representation?
A lawyer handles specific tasks rather than the whole case, for a set fee or a few hours. Most states allow it.