How Much Does a Divorce Lawyer Cost in Maryland?

Wondering how much it will cost to get divorced in Maryland? Just as no two couples are the same, no two divorces will have the same price tag. That said, we found some averages that will give you a general idea of what to expect.

Average Cost of Divorce in Maryland

According to a 2015 study by Martindale-Nolo Research, getting divorced in Maryland can cost anywhere from $4,000 to $28,000 depending on the specifics of the case. If the couple agrees to mutual consent the costs are closer to $2,000 plus court fees.

The costs increase if there are more complicated issues to sort out. For example, if the couple cannot agree on alimony issues or how to divide property, the average costs rise to between $19,000 and $20,000. Couples with minor children spent over $21,000.

The best way to keep cost down is to prepare a marital separation agreement and parenting plan (if needed) and file an uncontested divorce.

How Retainers Work

You will find that many attorneys require large retainers up front before getting involved in cases. A retainer is the advance payment of fees that is held in an attorney’s trust fund. The attorney bills against the fund as he or she works on your case. If the attorney finishes the case and there are funds left over, then the client receives a refund. If the retainer does not cover the cost of your case, the attorney will bill you for additional work.

You may be asking, “Why should I pay a lawyer before they have done any work for me?” Good question. Attorneys owe an ethical duty as officers of the court to keep representing clients until Maryland courts give them permission to get out of the case. Requiring a retainer protects attorneys from being legally required to keep working for a client without getting paid.

What Will My Divorce Cost?

Give Lebovitz Law a call to discuss the specifics of your case and learn about our pricing options. We offer flexible payment plans and accept partial retainers. We will also do limited appearances for simple cases. Contact us today.