Retaining an attorney can be expensive.
But not retaining an attorney can be costly.
Let it go. The biggest factor in reducing legal fees is failing to “let it go.” This clearly does not mean that you should be a push over or that you should not do battle when appropriate. It means letting go of disappointment of the failed relationship and the hostility you feel toward your spouse.
Harboring anger and resentment will delay the resolution of your divorce case. It will cloud your judgment and will in turn make settlement difficult, if not impossible. And foolish attempts to make his or her life miserable will cost you a small fortune in legal fees.
Avoid “sticker shock.” Always be aware of the terms of the Retainer Agreement with your lawyer. This Agreement should set forth the hourly rate, the amount of the initial retainer, when additional retainers will be required, costs of litigation and what tasks the attorney will bill for.
Most attorneys require an advance retainer and this retainer is deposited in a Trustee Account. The attorney then bills against the retainer amount and withdraws the money as fees are earned. So, treat the retainer as you would a debit or credit card (actually treat it with more care). Use it, but use it wisely. And do not go over your credit limit.