Whether you’ve been served divorce papers, or you’re the one who wants to initiate proceedings, there are lower-cost attorneys and services available to represent you or help you handle the process yourself. Below is additional information on hiring a Divorce Attorney Hagerstown for low-income MD petitioners.
Initiating Divorce Proceedings
A divorce can be expensive, and it’s not at all uncommon to hear of $300 hourly fees and $5000 retainers. Unless you have a large bank account or a high-paying job, you likely won’t be able to afford such prices. However, there are a variety of legal aid agencies and divorce attorneys willing to help.
If your marriage has been relatively short (less than five years), you don’t have children or numerous assets and neither party is contesting the divorce, you may be able to use summary procedures which help you and your ex-spouse finish the procedure for not a lot more than legal filing fees. Most locales provide free downloadable forms on county websites, and also have questionnaires to determine your eligibility for summary proceedings. If you’re not eligible, you can use a legal aid agency to help you draft the necessary paperwork for less than $500 in most cases.
Finding Low-cost Legal Help
Many bar associations have lists of divorce lawyers who have reduced fees; you can also get help in responding to papers or initiating proceedings from a low-cost or free legal aid office. These places can put you in touch with a Divorce Attorney Hagerstown who will either work pro bono (for free) or at a greatly reduced cost.
If there are children involved, there will be additional issues such as visitation, custody and child support; you shouldn’t try to negotiate these on your own. Many lawyers offering low-cost divorces are competent and experienced. Before hiring a lawyer based on what you see in an advertisement, do some research on their reputation and experience through the bar association or legal directory. With a bit of effort, you can find a skilled Divorce Attorney Hagerstown who will competently represent you throughout the entire process for a low fee.
