How Much Is A Divorce In Tampa?
It is no secret that divorce can become quite expensive for anyone going through one. Still, couples want to keep the cost as low as possible. No one can determine how much a divorce will cost without first fully reviewing the facts of the case. However, there are some guidelines couples can use to determine how much their divorce case may cost them. One of these is the type of divorce a couple gets. The cost of an uncontested divorce is much lower than a litigated divorce. Below, our Tampa divorce lawyer explains further.
The Cost of Divorce in Tampa
Every county in Florida sets their own filing fee for divorce. In Hillsborough County, the divorce filing fee is $408, regardless of whether a case is contested or uncontested. This means that whether you or your spouse agree or disagree on the terms of a divorce, you will have to pay the filing fee to the court. If the case is contested and you and your spouse do not agree, the costs can climb much higher than just the filing fee.
The Cost of Mediation in Tampa
Some counties in Florida require divorcing couples to attempt mediation before entering litigation. Hillsborough County is one which requires mediation prior to any temporary or final hearings, even if the parties do not think they will agree. In Pinellas and Pasco Counties it is not mandated for all divorcing couples. Mediation is intended to reduce the backlog of the family courts and give couples a chance to reach an agreement on all terms of a divorce outside of the courtroom. During mediation, couples meet with a neutral third party mediator. The role of the mediator is not to make decisions or provide legal advice. It is only to foster compromise and communication between the two parties so they can reach an agreement. And usually mediation is conducted via Zoom, which is very convenient for all parties involved.
The cost of mediation also depends on many factors, including the specific mediator a couple uses and the complexity of the issues involved. In Tampa, the average cost of mediation is between $4,000 and $8,000. The cost covers anywhere from one to four mediation sessions, the preparation of a possible settlement, and the expense of filing the paperwork with the court.
The Cost of Litigation in Tampa
Couples are strongly advised to try and reach an agreement during mediation. Although mediation is more costly than filing an uncontested divorce, it is much more affordable than litigation. Litigation, or entering into a divorce trial, is the most expensive way couples can get a divorce. Litigation can cost as much as $25,000 for each party involved, and even more than that when there are complicated issues. Litigated divorces typically cost more because they are more contentious and because there are more fees involved, including court fees and the cost of expert witnesses.
Our Divorce Lawyers in Tampa Can Help Keep Costs Low
Legal fees make up a large percentage of the costs of divorce. At All Family Law Group, P.A., our Tampa divorce lawyers will work hard to help you and your spouse reach an agreement quickly so you can keep the costs of your divorce as low as possible. Call us now at 813-672-1900 or contact us online to schedule a free consultation.
Sources:
leg.state.fl.us/statutes/index.cfm?App_mode=Display_Statute&URL=0000-0099/0061/0061.html
leg.state.fl.us/Statutes/index.cfm?App_mode=Display_Statute&URL=0000-0099/0044/0044.html
