Family Law Firm: Smart Tips for Keeping Legal Fees Low

Dec 20, 2022

At the Kelly D. Jordan Family Law Firm, we care not only about our clients’ cases, but their financial wellbeing as well. While you may need to hire a lawyer from a family law firm for your divorce, it shouldn’t create financial hardship.

A lot of clients are tightening their belts. Whether it’s the rising cost of daily living, those never-ending subscription fees, or rising interest rates, families need to protect their finances now more than ever.

But we also know that there are many challenges representing yourself in family court. The truth is that having a qualified family lawyer can make or break your separation or divorce case. A Harvard Access to Justice study noted the startling statistic that participants with legal representation in family court were 87% more likely to successfully divorce than those who were only offered self-help resources.

So qualified legal representation helps. If cost is a concern for you, how can you keep your legal fees low and get the best representation for your case?

1. Do your Research

Research the procedures – even if you don’t wish to represent yourself, reviewing the resources available for the self-represented can help you better understand the process, and minimize the time needed for the lawyer from your family law firm to walk you through them.

2. Be Reasonable with Your Expectations.

When it comes to family court, “right”, “wrong” and “fair” are not as simple as they may seem. Divorce is emotional. The law is designed to be fair in its own way – and it may not match your expectations. Many clients who experience the family law system for the first time aren’t fully aware of the law, and can be confused by what the courts deem as fair. Talk with your family lawyer to understand the various outcomes.

3. Take Notes

When you visit or call your family law firm, take notes during your meetings with the lawyer. Taking notes reduces the need to follow up with your lawyer. Don’t forget they bill you for their time, so you want to ensure you are using your lawyer’s time efficiently to keep fees down.

4. Email your family law firm instead of calling

Email is generally quicker than a phone conversation. If you have short, clear questions, your lawyer can potentially answer just as clearly. Email can also help you keep track of responses. Remember, though, that your lawyer is handling multiple cases, and may not be able to respond to your email immediately.

5. Be Prepared and Do the Legwork

If you need documents, compile as many as you can yourself, and keep them neatly organized and readily accessible. The more time your lawyer needs to spend organizing your documents, the more you may be charged.

6. Consider Out-of-Court Alternatives to Resolve Your Family Law Dispute

Court cases can be expensive. There is much research to show that out-of-court alternatives, like mediation or negotiation can be less expensive than going through court. Lawyers at the Kelly D. Jordan Family Law Firm have experience navigating clients through litigation in court, as well as negotiation or mediation. Kelly Jordan is even a qualified family law mediator if you wish to explore that route.

Need Help with Your Separation or Divorce? Contact the Kelly D. Jordan Family Law Firm

With decades of experience, the team of lawyers at the Kelly D. Jordan Family Law Firm are ready to help you find creative and positive solutions to your family law matters. We have extensive expertise in all family law matters, including separation and divorce, custody matters, support, adoption, marriage agreements and more. You can count on use for trusted advice, expert guidance, and support. Contact us today for a consultation on your case.