Cost of Litigation: Can You Afford NOT to Settle Your Divorce Out of Court?~ 3 min read

Court battles are costly, time-consuming, and emotionally draining with uncertain outcomes. An amicable divorce, resolved through Mediation or Collaborative Divorce offer more affordable, efficient, and respectful alternatives that help protect your finances, relationships, and well-being. Going to Court may mean that you spend more money and get less in return.

The True Cost of a Court Battle

When emotions are high, you might feel tempted to “win” your divorce in court. But trials do not come cheap, financially or emotionally. Between attorney fees, expert witnesses, court filings, and time away from work, litigation costs add up quickly. In many cases, what you spend fighting in court could be more than what you might recover.

Why Trial Is So Expensive

Going to trial is not a single event. It is a long process that can last months or even years. You may pay your attorney to prepare motions, gather documents, question witnesses, and attend hearings. If you have children, you may also be required to pay for a guardian ad litem. Expert witnesses, such as divorce financial analysts or appraisers, may be needed as well.

And even with all of this effort, the outcome is uncertain. You might spend thousands of dollars only to end up with a result that feels disappointing and additional motions to clean up matters that may have been overlooked or misstated by the Court

Out-of-Court Options Save Time and Money

Choosing an amicable divorce, through Mediation or Collaborative Divorce can feel expensive at first, especially when you hire neutral professionals like a financial specialist or mental health coach. But in reality, these options usually cost much less than litigation in the long run. The work is more focused, and you are not paying for court delays or repeated filings.

Settlement-based approaches also save you time. That means fewer missed workdays and less emotional stress, which can take a toll on your health, productivity, and relationships.

It Is About More Than Just Money

Litigation will leave lasting scars, especially if it turns into a battle over blame or accusations. This damage can be hard to undo, especially if you have children. Settling outside of court gives you more control over the tone of the process. You can work toward a respectful resolution, which often leads to better outcomes for everyone involved.

A Smarter Way Forward

Before you commit to litigation, take time to understand the financial and emotional toll that going to court can take. If your goal is to protect your resources and reduce conflict, there are better ways to move forward.

Want to Save More Than Just Money?

At Family Ally in St. Louis, we help people like you avoid the high cost of divorce trials. If you are considering Mediation or Collaborative Divorce, we are here to support your decisions and help you settle with care. Contact Jennifer Piper at  314-449-9800 to  schedule a consultation and take the next step toward a solution that works for you and your family.

Family Ally is located at 130 S. Bemiston Ave., Suite 608, St. Louis, MO 63105.