Time & cost

How long will it take? What will it cost?

They're the first two questions every client asks. Here are honest answers, including why the honest answer to the second one starts with “it depends.”

Why there's no estimate on day one

Abby has been involved in divorces that cost $5,000 and divorces that cost $4 million. At a first meeting, nobody, including you, knows yet which way a case will go.

Managing your expectations honestly is a big part of her job. A number given before the facts are in is a guess, and a wrong guess only sets you up to be disappointed later. As your case takes shape, you'll know what's driving the time and the cost.

What drives time and cost

AgreementHow much the two of you can agree on, and how quickly.
ComplexityBusinesses, equity, real estate and retirement accounts take longer to value and divide.
ChildrenWhether custody and parenting time are agreed or contested.
CourtEvery hearing and every contested issue adds time. Resolving issues at the table usually costs less.

The timeline, phase by phase

In California, a divorce can't become final until at least six months after the other spouse is served or appears in the case. That's a legal minimum. Most of the real timeline depends on how the three phases go.

  1. 1

    Stabilize

    Housing, money in the bank, and a schedule for the kids. Typically the first priority, and often the fastest phase.

    [Typical duration — Abby to confirm]

  2. 2

    Gather

    Both spouses exchange financial disclosures covering assets, debts and income. The more complex the finances, the longer this takes.

    [Typical duration — Abby to confirm]

  3. 3

    Resolve

    Negotiation, mediation or, when needed, court. A settled case moves much faster than a tried one.

    [Typical duration — Abby to confirm]

Common questions

How quickly will I hear back?

Call before 2 p.m. and you'll hear back the same day. After 2 p.m., you'll hear back the next business day.

What does a consultation cost?

[Consultation format, length and fee — Abby to confirm.]

Do I have to live in California to file here?

To file for divorce in California, one spouse must have lived in the state for at least six months and in the county for at least three months. If you don't meet that yet, there may still be options. Ask in your consultation.

Will we have to go to court?

Most families are best served by resolving things outside a courtroom, and Abby works toward that first. When the other side won't be reasonable, she's prepared to litigate.

What should I bring to the first meeting?

[Abby's checklist — e.g. recent tax returns, pay stubs, account statements.]