How much does it cost to hire a divorce lawyer?
Many New York City divorce attorneys charge initial retainer payments of $5,000, $10,000, $25,000, or upwards, with hourly legal fees generally ranging from $250 to $600 or more. In a contested divorce, clients often have to replenish their retainer payment with a new lump sum payment and since both spouses are paying a separate lawyer, the cost of a contested divorce proceeding in NYC often runs into the six figures. In divorce mediation, you pay your fees as you go. There is no duplication of payment unless you or your partner has hired a lawyer to counsel you during the mediation process.
