Divorce costs money. There is the money paid to the attorney, a professional who is paid to represent you. This money is well spent because they know the law and the divorce process. Your attorney is your advocate and advisor.

A reasonable attorney will also point out that their fees do not include additional expenses that could arise during the divorce process, mainly during discovery.

An essential part of the discovery phase of a divorce consists of the mandatory exchange of information about all assets and liabilities. If a client feels their spouse is less than truthful, additional attorney time and other experts may be needed to prove it (expenses like a forensic accountant, private investigator, subpoenas, depositions, etc.). Costs in a contentious divorce can climb quickly, but if these additional steps are not taken, showing that your spouse is not acting honestly is unlikely.

These costs will be your responsibility. Usually, a spouse will not pay for them until the Court orders payment or reimbursement to you. For that, proof of your spouse’s actual financial status will be required to request reimbursement through the court. If paying for these costs is not possible, then litigation may not be an option for you.

What can you do to avoid finding yourself in this situation?

Work on a reasonable agreement with your spouse that both parties can live with. Your attorney can guide you through this process, working with everything known. Remember that no agreement is perfect because both parties must make concessions to reach one, but if you and your spouse are willing to work towards this end, the divorce can be finalized without excessive expenses, giving you closure and the opportunity to move on with your life.