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How Much Does a Divorce Lawyer Cost in PA?

Published: Oct 07, 2021 in Divorce
Attorney pointing at where couple needs to sign document

Written by Anthony Piccirilli

Hiring a Pittsburgh divorce lawyer may save you money when you consider the costly mistakes you could make on your own. Divorce can be expensive if you will be responsible for assets, debts, and child or spousal support. A divorce attorney isn’t always about cost but value.

What Is the Total Cost of a Divorce in Pennsylvania?

The amount of money you could spend on legal fees depends primarily on whether your divorce is contested or uncontested.

If there are no contested issues, the average total cost of a divorce in Pennsylvania is between $3,500 and $4,000 if there is even one contested or disputed item, the average cost increases from $5,000 to $6,000.

If there are many disputes but your divorce is resolved through negotiation and mediation, your total cost range is likely between $8,500 to $10,500. The cost increases if you and your former partner go to court; in complex cases where there are many issues in dispute, a divorce can cost as much as $20,000.

What Does a Divorce Lawyer Cost?

Legal fees make up a large part of the cost of your divorce. Most divorce attorneys charge between $230 and $280 per hour. In the Philadelphia and Pittsburgh areas, fees may be as high as $320 per hour. By the time your divorce is finalized, the total fees are between $9,500 and $11,500.

A Pittsburgh Divorce Lawyer Can Reduce Your Costs Overall

Hiring a Pittsburgh divorce lawyer seems expensive, but you must consider the value of having a legal fighter on your side. It may be a better investment up front than to pay thousands of dollars for many years in child support, spousal support, or both.

There are other considerations in addition to financial concerns. A divorce lawyer can help you with child custody arrangements to ensure that your parental rights are protected.

How Can I Lower My Divorce Lawyer Costs?

You can lower the cost of a Pittsburgh divorce attorney:

  • Be organized: Make sure your paperwork and information are complete and accurate.
  • Be prepared: Write down your questions to make telephone or in-person consultations briefer but more effective.
  • Ask if a paralegal can help: A paralegal or legal assistant does not charge as much as an attorney but can still work on your case. The average hourly rate for a paralegal is $125.

Other Expenses in a Divorce

There are some other costs involved with getting a divorce. You will have to pay filing fees, mediation costs, and potential expert expenses. Sometimes experts are used in child custody cases. Financial analysts may be used to submit an opinion and analysis in alimony, spousal support, and child support issues.

These non-attorney costs typically total $1,600 or less. If you have no disputes in your case, your other expenses will be much lower.

Get a consultation with a PA Divorce Lawyer

Pittsburgh Divorce & Family Law, LLC will review your case and help you understand the best options for you. Call us today at (412) 471-5100 or use our online contact form to schedule a consultation.