How Much Does a Divorce Cost? | Full Episode | Illinois Divorce Guide Podcast

Описание: How Much Does Divorce Really Cost in Illinois? | Illinois Divorce Guide Ep. 19
Wondering what a divorce will actually cost you? Whether you're considering a DIY divorce or worried about the price tag of litigation, this episode breaks it all down.

Illinois divorce attorney Bobby Buchanan joins Greer Howard to walk through the real costs—financial and emotional—of different divorce paths, including limited scope representation, negotiated divorce, mediation, collaborative divorce, and litigation. This is your go-to guide for understanding what to expect before the bills start rolling in.

✅ Get real numbers, practical guidance, and tips to help you choose the right divorce strategy for your situation.

Timestamps:
[01:12] – What really determines how much divorce costs?
[02:40] – Four types of divorce paths explained
[03:15] – Option 1: DIY divorce – cheapest, but risky
[05:00] – How filing fees work in Illinois
[06:40] – Why DIY divorces can backfire
[07:35] – Limited scope representation: what it is and when it makes sense
[10:30] – Why not all attorneys offer limited scope services
[11:00] – Option 2: Negotiated divorce – efficient and lower conflict
[12:15] – What happens when only one spouse hires a lawyer?
[13:00] – Typical costs for negotiated divorce in Illinois
[15:00] – Flat fee vs. hourly billing explained
[16:20] – How attorney experience affects hourly rates
[17:35] – The role of junior vs. senior attorneys
[18:50] – Tips for choosing a fair and transparent lawyer
[20:00] – What to expect from flat-fee divorce services
[21:30] – Option 3: Mediation – collaborative, but not legal advice
[23:50] – What mediators charge and how long it takes
[25:00] – Who pays the mediator?
[26:30] – Can you skip hiring a lawyer if you use a mediator?
[28:00] – Cost range for mediated divorces
[28:30] – Option 4: Collaborative divorce – what it is and why it works
[30:30] – How collaborative divorce differs from mediation
[31:15] – Estimated total cost of collaborative divorce
[32:00] – Why collaborative divorce can save money long-term
[32:45] – Option 5: Litigation – the most expensive route
[33:50] – When litigation is necessary
[34:40] – How legal battles spiral: motions, hearings, and court delays
[35:30] – The cost of experts: GALs, appraisers, forensic accountants
[36:10] – Minimum and typical litigation costs
[36:45] – Why emotional conflict drives cost more than complexity
[37:30] – Final advice on budgeting for divorce and finding the right help

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🔗 For more resources and legal guidance:
📺 YouTube: ‪@IllinoisDivorceTV‬
🌐 Website: https://www.rbbfirm.com
📞 Consult Bobby’s Firm: 312-757-4833
📧 Email: [email protected]

📌 Disclaimer: This podcast is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Please consult a professional for legal guidance tailored to your situation.

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