When it comes to divorce, there is no fixed cost that can be applied to all cases. Every divorce case is unique and therefore call for case-specific procedures and requirements which can impact the overall cost. To give you an idea about how much you will likely need to spend if you want to file a divorce, we have an estimated cost for every divorce method.
Divorce can be a really catastrophic event not only for the couples themselves but also for the family and children involved. It is not only emotionally, physically, and mentally distressing, it can also be financially draining, causing a lot of families to go bankrupt. Considering these disadvantages, it is a wise idea to be sure that a divorce is right for you before filing for divorce.
The cost of divorce in Ontario, Canada
When it comes to divorce, there is no fixed cost that can be applied to all cases. Every divorce case is unique and therefore calls for case-specific procedures and requirements which can impact the overall cost.
The cost of divorce can be based on different factors including the complexities of your case, the method you choose, the professional you hire, and the level of conflict or cooperation between the two parties involved. Divorce methods available in Canada are:
• Do-It-Yourself Divorce
• Internet Divorce
• Divorce Mediation
• Lawyer-Driven Divorce
• Collaborative Law Process
To give you an idea about how much you will likely need to spend if you want to file a divorce, we have here an estimated cost for every divorce method.
• Do-It-Yourself Divorce
Financially-wise, the Do-It-Yourself Divorce is the best option. Since you will be the one to handle all the paperwork and work on all the steps of the divorce process, you will only have to spend a minimal amount for the paperwork, court, and filing fees which can range from $300 to $1,500.
• Internet Divorce
This method requires couples to register with a website that offers Internet Divorce Service. The service will help the divorcing couples to identify the basic relevant financial and legal issues that they will likely face during the entire process. On top of the average cost of $300 to $1,500 for the fees directly related to paperwork, court, and filing, you will have to spend an additional $300 ( on average) for the service registration cost.
• Divorce Mediation
This option includes working with a neutral third-party called the mediator who will guide the divorcing couple all throughout the divorce process. Depending on the complexity of your case, you will likely need to spend around $3,000 to $7,000 for the divorce mediation.
• Lawyer-Driven Divorce
Lawyer-Driven Divorce requires one of the parties to hire a lawyer who will represent and advocate for the hiring party to obtain the most favorable outcome. The divorce lawyers can charge around $200/hour to $500/hour for their service. For cases that do not go to trial, the average cost ranges from $15,000 to $32,000. If your divorce case goes to trial, be prepared to pay an average cost of $78,000 to $200,000 per party.
• Collaborative Law Process
Collaborative Law Process or Collaborative Divorce is a combination of divorce mediation and lawyer-driven divorce. The cost for the collaborative law process depends on the professionals involved, the complexity of your divorce case, and the cooperative efforts between two parties. On average, the divorcing couple needs to spend around $25,000 to $50,000 each for this method.
Divorce can be really expensive and it should not be taken lightly especially if your financial status is not at its best yet.
