At Flat Fee Divorce Solutions, I understand that going through a divorce can be a terribly difficult time. Your life may be changing before you and you may be wondering how you are going to afford them all. Most clients want to know how much their divorce is going to cost them. With my approach of a flat fee service, you know what you are getting into from the start. I began working in litigation, where I would argue and try cases for my clients and could never predict how much my clients’ legal fees would be. Going through litigation for divorce can be hard on both parties and any children who are involved.
At Flat Fee Divorce Solutions, transparency and affordability are at the heart of my practice. Traditional divorce proceedings often come with unpredictable costs that can skyrocket as the case drags on. By offering flat fee uncontested divorces, I eliminate financial uncertainty, allowing you to focus on the emotional aspects of this life transition without worrying about mounting legal fees. If you are looking for a smooth divorce process that does not break the bank, then contact me, a Belleville, IL divorce lawyer by hopping on the LawCat CatBot.
Coping With Divorce
Divorce is one of the most emotionally challenging things any person can go through. Rarely does anyone imagine parting ways from someone they planned on being with for the long-term. Regardless of how you feel about your divorce, it can be stressful. With my approach, you know what to expect from the start. This can bring immense relief to clients who are already coping with divorce itself, and don’t need extra costs or unexpected expenses that can make their life harder. You can trust that I will streamline the process to quickly resolve matters.
How It Works
I do not take cases to trial or hearings, and I do not take on cases where the couple wants to fight in court. Instead, I charge a flat rate instead of an hourly rate, and represent people who are willing to cooperate with the other party. According to Forbes, the average cost of divorce in the United States is between $15,000 and $20,000. With a median U.S. family income of $74,580, that comes out to 20% of a family’s annual income! Knowing what your costs are up front and that both parties must be willing to move forward avoids unnecessary stress, fees, and drama.
My approach is only for clients who want to make agreements to settle their issues. As a dedicated divorce attorney, I do not take on cases where you need a judge to decide things such as debt division, who gets which assets, and arrangements with your children.
Flat Fee Divorce Solutions
Divorce does not have to be complicated or drain your bank account. I am Amanda Bradley and my focus at Flat Fee Divorce Solutions is to get you divorce as seamlessly as possible. If you are interested in getting the legal help you need without the added expenses, then reach out to me through the LawCat chat Catbot at the bottom of the website. I hope to hear from you soon!
7 Important Things To Know When Hiring A Divorce Lawyer
Going through a divorce involves more than just signing papers—it’s a major transition. If you’re considering ending your marriage, it’s important to have reliable legal support that focuses on your goals, your rights, and your future. The process doesn’t need to be more difficult than it already feels. My goal is to provide practical, clear guidance without adding pressure or confusion.
At Flat Fee Divorce Solutions, I work with individuals in Belleville, IL and surrounding areas who are ready to move forward with confidence.
Here are key things to consider—keeping in mind that your lawyer’s location isn’t everything.
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Clear Communication Helps Avoid Confusion
When you’re going through a divorce, timely and direct communication matters. You shouldn’t have to wait days for an answer or feel uncertain about where things stand. I keep clients informed and respond promptly so you’re never left in the dark about your next steps.
Know What To Expect Financially
No one likes surprises when it comes to legal fees. While every case and situation is unique, I offer transparent pricing for my divorce services, which means you’ll know the cost up front. This helps you plan without worrying about unexpected charges or add-ons. It also gives you one less thing to think about during an already emotional process.
Familiarity With Local Process Makes A Difference
Working regularly in Belleville and surrounding areas, I understand how cases move through the local court system. I prepare all required documents for filing and submit everything properly to the appropriate county. That includes knowing where to file, what’s required, and how to avoid common mistakes.
The Approach Should Match Your Needs
Not every divorce is the same. Some people are looking for a quicker, low-conflict solution, while others may need more time to sort things out. My role is to help you find the most efficient path based on your personal goals. This includes helping my client find a mediator to iron out any sticking points, negotiating on their behalf and providing any other resources from my network. While I do not attend mediation with clients, I can help you prepare and understand what to expect from the process.
Paperwork Accuracy Matters
From marital settlement agreements to parenting plans, the documents involved in divorce are important and must be handled carefully. I make sure everything is drafted correctly, submitted the right way, and meet the requirements of Illinois law.
This helps avoid delays and keeps things moving—especially when deciding whether to keep your married name.
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Parenting Issues Require Clear Legal Understanding
In Illinois, courts now use terms like “parental allocation” and “parenting time”—a shift from the standard visitation plan of the past.
. If children are involved, I work with you to prepare the parenting documents the court needs. I’ll help you understand how parenting responsibilities and schedules can be structured under Illinois law.
You’re The Only Client In The Room
When I take on a divorce case, I represent just one person—you. I do not work with both spouses, and I do not represent families as a whole. That means my focus is entirely on your rights, your future, and what’s best for you throughout the process. As a part of that, though, my goal is to help you find your future peacefully.
If you’re thinking about moving forward with divorce and want clear, affordable legal support, I’m here to help. Contact me, Amanda, at Flat Fee Divorce Solutions to schedule a consultation and find out how I can support your next step.
Divorce Glossary
At my firm, I recognize that going through a divorce can be challenging and emotionally taxing.
As your Belleville, IL divorce lawyer, I’ll simplify the process—starting with what to expect in a consultation.
. Whether you’re considering a flat fee service or exploring uncontested divorce options, understanding the terminology involved is crucial for making informed decisions.
Flat Fee Service
A flat fee service is a payment structure where I charge a set, predetermined amount for handling your divorce case. Unlike the traditional hourly billing approach, where costs can quickly add up depending on the complexity and length of your case, a flat fee gives you the benefit of financial predictability. This approach can be particularly beneficial for those seeking to manage their legal expenses without worrying about unexpected bills. By choosing a flat fee service, you have a clear understanding of the total cost from the start, helping you plan accordingly.
Uncontested Divorce
In an uncontested divorce, both spouses agree on key issues—sometimes even sharing a lawyer in Illinois.
. This type of divorce is typically less time-consuming and less costly than contested cases. Since both parties are on the same page, it streamlines the process significantly.
For cooperative couples, an uncontested divorce offers a smoother, faster process—especially when you’re organized from the start.
. It’s often the best route for those who want to avoid the stress and expense of litigation.
Litigation
Litigation refers to the process of resolving disputes through the court system when couples can’t agree on critical issues. When parties are unable to reach a consensus on matters such as asset division, child custody, or alimony, litigation may become necessary. This process involves presenting your case before a judge, who will then make binding decisions. However, it is important to understand that litigation is often more time-intensive and costly compared to other resolution methods, such as mediation. The formal nature of court proceedings means that you will need to be prepared for a potentially lengthy process. While sometimes unavoidable, litigation is generally best reserved for situations where no agreement can be reached outside of court.
Debt Division
Dividing marital assets is only one part of the equation; handling debt is just as crucial. Debt division involves determining how debts accrued during the marriage will be allocated between the parties during the divorce. This can include credit card balances, car loans, mortgages, and other shared financial obligations.
In Illinois, debts are divided equitably—fair doesn’t always mean equal in the eyes of the court.
. It’s essential to have a clear understanding of what debts were incurred during the marriage and which party is responsible for them to avoid surprises down the line. Proper debt division can help both parties move forward on stable financial ground after the divorce.
Mediation
While not mandatory, mediation offers a collaborative alternative to litigation for those who wish to resolve their differences outside of court. In mediation, a neutral third party helps the couple negotiate and settle disputes. This process is often preferred by those who wish to reach a resolution amicably and with minimal conflict. Mediation allows both parties to have control over the outcome rather than leaving decisions in the hands of a judge. Additionally, mediation is typically faster and more cost-effective, making it an attractive option for those who want to move forward efficiently. It’s particularly beneficial for parents who wish to maintain a positive co-parenting relationship post-divorce.
If you’re seeking a straightforward approach to divorce proceedings, Flat Fee Divorce Solutions is here to provide clarity and support throughout the process. Our goal is to help you go through these challenging times with as much ease as possible.
Interested in learning more or scheduling a consultation? Reach out to us today to discuss your options and get started on the path toward a fresh start.
Belleville Divorce FAQ
Ending a marriage can bring a lot of uncertainty, especially if you’ve never been through the process before. Having clear answers to common questions can help you feel more prepared and informed. Here are five key questions many people ask when considering legal help for their divorce.
Who Might Need A Divorce Lawyer?
Anyone who wants their divorce documents to be accurate and their agreements clearly written can benefit from legal help. Even in an amicable divorce, a lawyer helps prevent costly mistakes and misunderstandings. If you have property to divide, financial accounts to address, or parenting time (formerly custody and visitation) to arrange, working with a lawyer can help you protect your interests and keep the process on track. My role is to represent you, prepare the paperwork, and communicate with the other side to help reach a fair agreement.
What Does A Divorce Lawyer Actually Do?
My work starts with gathering information about your situation. I then prepare your divorce documents based on your goals and the information you provide. You review everything before it is sent to your spouse. I also handle communication with the other side to work through any disagreements. In Illinois, there’s no waiting period, so if both sides agree, the process can move quickly. My focus is to keep the steps clear, the documents accurate, and the process moving forward without unnecessary delays.
Why Hire A Lawyer Instead Of Filing On Your Own?
Filing on your own can be done, but it carries a higher risk of errors or unclear terms. Even small mistakes can cause problems later, especially with financial agreements or property division. Working with a lawyer helps ensure your documents meet legal requirements and that your final agreement reflects what you want. You also have someone to handle communication with the other side, which can reduce tension. I focus on making sure your divorce moves forward smoothly while keeping your interests at the center of every decision.
How Is Information Shared With A Divorce Lawyer?
Once you hire me, you’ll provide me with detailed information that I use to draft your divorce agreement. You review every document before I send anything to the other side, so you remain in control of the process. This step-by-step approach helps avoid errors and allows us to make adjustments before your case moves forward. Clear communication and accurate documentation are the foundation for an efficient and fair resolution.
How Long Does A Divorce Take In Illinois?
The timeline depends on how quickly both sides reach an agreement. Since Illinois has no waiting period, divorces can be finalized quickly when terms are agreed upon early. If there are disagreements, it may take longer to resolve them before filing. My approach is to work through issues as efficiently as possible so your divorce can move forward without unnecessary delays. The sooner we have a signed agreement from both sides, the sooner the process can be completed.
As a Belleville, IL divorce lawyer, I help clients approach divorce with clarity and confidence. At Flat Fee Divorce Solutions, I focus on accuracy, efficiency, and keeping your interests protected. If you’re ready to start the process, contact me today to discuss your situation.
