What affects the cost?
Factors that affect the cost include:
- whether you and the other parent can reach an agreement
- the number of hearings and whether a custody assessment is carried out
- the need for interim orders — temporary decisions pending a final decision
- whether the case is appealed
Who pays?
In cases concerning child custody, residence and contact, you and the other party will generally each bear your own legal costs. Legal expenses insurance or legal aid may reduce the amount you have to pay yourself.