Uncontested Divorce

WHAT DOES AN UNCONTESTED DIVORCE COST?

A "Truly Uncontested Divorce" for a resident of Manitoba, filing for a divorce in Winnipeg, will cost in the range of $600 to $1,000 to complete, inclusive of fees disbursements and G.S.T. This range is based on our current hourly rates. Other lawyers, with perhaps a different type of practice or experience may undertake to perform the service for less, or for more, or perhaps a fixed fee. Each case is different, however. There are almost always unperfected, or unanticipated, services required that the client has not thought about.

The ramifications of a divorce, particularly to the adults and children, require an individual approach. It's the lawyer's job to canvas the larger picture with the client, and to make sure the client has been informed of his or her rights and obligations. This process of helping the client to understand those rights and obligations, in the context of his or her own situation and the broad application of the law, is an important one. It may turn up rights or benefits not considered, clarify myths or incorrect assumptions, or may help to avoid future costly proceedings.

If it is a " truly uncontested divorce", the cost will be at the bottom end of the range. What constitutes a "truly uncontested" divorce depends on your perspective. If there are children involved, there are often issues that need ongoing input and advice.

The client has an input into the cost of his or her divorce. We encourage our clients to do as much for themselves as they reasonably can, such as organizing their documents, working out their own financial statements or tracking down other information needed for their case. These efforts can have a dramatic effect in keeping fees low. Go to Client's Rights.

This is our stock answer as of January 2005. The forgoing is a rough estimation, not a guarantee or quote of a fee. Each case will require its own fee discussion and arrangements and, before a case will be accepted, both the lawyer and the client must agree.