It depends upon how complex your issues are, how much conflict you and your spouse have, and how cooperative your lawyers are.
In mediation there is no retainer required up front. You pay at the end of every session, and pay small upfront costs for preparation of the agreement and divorce papers. Because you are both working with one professional this is usually the most cost-effective process.
In the Collaborative process a retainer is required up front which is replenished as needed. Other collaborative professional may require retainers as well. By working together these specialists provide you with a cohesive, mindful and successful divorce, which can be very cost effective.
In traditional representations you also pay a retainer up front that is replenished as needed. If your case doesn’t settle, an additional retainer will be required before trial. This is usually the costliest process, because instead of working toward common goals spouses and their attorneys are usually at odds working toward different goals.
In all processes there may also be court costs, appraisal and other fees.
Teresa Ombres is a graduate of Fordham University and New York Law School and is admitted to the practice of law in the States of New York and New Jersey. She began her career in divorce and family law in 1981 and began mediating in 1996 after trainings in Community Mediation and Divorce Mediation.