FAQ Page

1. How much does a divorce cost?

While cost is always dependent upon the case, a typical divorce with no dispute over property or custody of children will cost a minimum of $1,100. This includes your filing fee which will run between $165 and $265.

The remainder of the cost is for the time that I and my staff spend on your case. The more time we spend on your case, the more your divorce will cost. The two elements that most readily increase the amount of time spent on your case and thus the cost of your divorce are you and your soon to be ex-spouse. In this regard, you are somewhat in control of the cost of your divorce. Remember that it is seldom cost efficient to fight over a piece of personal property such as a toaster. If this sounds ridiculous to you, please be assured that it happens frequently and can add hundreds of dollars to the cost of your divorce. The moral to this story is to pick your "fights" carefully. Make sure that what you are proposing to fight over is worth the added aggravation and cost.

2. Can I represent both parties in a divorce?

The short answer is NO. That would be a conflict of interest. However, when the spouses have worked out their proposed division of property, debt and the custody issues involving their children, I can do all of the necessary legal paperwork to get the two parties divorced without the expense of another attorney. To make this work, the spouse that is not my client needs to understand that they also have the right to be represented by an attorney. This most often works best when the two parties still trust each other enough to know that their spouse is being fair with them and is only trying to minimize the legal expenses of the divorce and thus maximize the assets that are left to each party after the divorce is over.

3. How long does it take to get divorced?

A minimum of 6 weeks to a maximum of a year. It depends upon the complexity of the case and how much fighting is involved.

4. If I am considering divorce, what should I bring with me for my first visit with you?

Although you do not have to bring anything, it would be helpful to bring:

Tax records for the preceding 3 years.
Social Security numbers of your children and spouse.
The legal description of your home, if you own a home.
Paycheck stubs.
Retirement plan information.

5. What do I need to bring with me on my first visit with you if I am involved in a paternity issue?

Once again, you do not have to bring anything, but it would speed things up if you brought:

Child's date of birth and Social Security number
Precise Legal Name and address of all of the individuals involved in the case (this includes the child and both custodial and noncustodial parents)
Address of the child

6. What counties do you service?

Primarily:

St. Louis County
Jefferson County

Occasionally, when the situation is right for the client:

St. Charles County
The City of St. Louis

7. Can I bring other items that I feel are relevant?

Yes, but make certain that:

If they are small bits of paper, such as notes, make certain they are in envelopes or ziplock bags.
If you bring in audio or video tapes, make certain they are cued to the relevant sections. This prevents delays that could cost you money.

Helpful Hints

Stay focused and organized. Make a list of questions prior to visiting my office. Remember, you are being billed for the time I spend on your case. Help us help you keep costs as low as possible.

For any notes you make for me, please put them on 8 ½ x 11 paper so that they fit easily into your client binder.

Keep emotions under control. Do not allow anger to get in the way of expediting your divorce. For example, do not fight over items with little or no sentimental value.

Do not compare your situation to others. A lot of factors are involved in producing a final outcome. Remember that your divorce is not going to be the same as your neighbor's divorce or your friend's divorce. No two sets of facts are exactly the same. Therefore, no two settlement are exactly the same.

Find one or two people from which to obtain advice. Too many opinions can leave you more confused and anxious.

Keep your important documents and receipts organized, and in a safe place. That may mean removing them from the residence.

Stay safe. If you are afraid of physical violence, be sure to mention that to me.

Keep your children out of the middle of the divorce. Make sure they are not present when you discuss your situation with your friends. This is a difficult time for them and they may need counseling to help them work through their emotions.

Know that this time of confusion and insanity will end. Concentrate and focus on your goal.

Call or contact us today to set up an appointment with a St. Louis family law attorney.

Carla J. Zolman, L.L.C.

Carla J. Zolman, L.L.C., is a family law attorney serving St. Louis, Missouri and the surrounding areas of St. Louis County, St. Charles County, and Jefferson County, including Ballwin, Brentwood, Chesterfield, Clayton, Crestwood, Creve Coeur, Des Peres, Ellisville, Kirkwood, Frontenac, Ladue, Manchester, Maplewood, Maryland Heights, Mehlville, Oakville, St. Louis, Town & Country, University City, Webster Groves, and Richmond Heights.