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Last Modified on Jun 19, 2026
Whatever your circumstances may be, seeking a divorce in Louisiana is never easy. Whether you are dealing with a high-conflict custody case in Lafayette Parish or are over the age of 50 and wondering how to keep your divorce as private as possible in Abbeville, knowing the real cost of a Louisiana divorce trial vs. a settlement conference is important. At Laura L. Davenport, LLC, our attorneys are here to help you know the differences and how they affect you.
Costs of a Louisiana Divorce Trial vs. a Settlement Conference
While the divorce rate of Louisiana is generally low when compared to other states—0.9 cases per every 1,000 residents—couples seek to legally end their marriage every day. For some of these couples, the right option for them is to simply head to court. Thankfully, this is not the only available option.
Many couples in Louisiana find that they can reach an agreement regarding the various issues of their marriage–child custody, asset division, and support payments–through a process known as a divorce settlement conference. While divorce is difficult no matter the circumstances, it may be easier for a couple to negotiate their differences through a settlement conference rather than take the long, often-challenging path of a courtroom trial.
In a divorce settlement conference, the spouses, can work out the various details of their divorce. You and your spouse remain in control as you make sense of your differences and reach viable solutions.
One of the main benefits of a divorce settlement conference is cost. When deciding between a trial and a settlement conference, it is important to be aware of the costs involved in both. Costs are highly dependent on the factors of the case itself, but typically break down in the following manner:
- Trial costs. Costs involved in a trial are likely to be higher. You will face the original filing fees, which can range from a few to several hundred dollars. You will then need to factor in attorney fees, which are dependent on the complexity and duration of your case, the service process fees, and the court fees. Depending on the case, a trial can cost anywhere from several thousand to tens of thousands of dollars.
- Divorce settlement conference costs. Because a settlement conference is often quicker and more collaborative, the savings can prove to be immense. While you still need to pay the official filing fees, attorney fees, and the fees involved with finalizing the divorce paperwork, the time saved and the avoidance of an actual court battle can help save hundreds of thousands of dollars.
Other Benefits of a Louisiana Divorce Settlement Conference
In addition to the cost differences between a courtroom trial and a divorce settlement conference in Louisiana, there are a number of other differences, and a settlement conference may prove the better option. While financial savings are crucial, other benefits of a Louisiana divorce settlement conference include:
- Time. Court proceedings are known to take time and involve lengthy and emotionally painful appearances and hearings. Seeking divorce through a settlement conference helps save you money and time. You have the ability to avoid the stressful process involved in trial and reach an agreement regarding your divorce quickly through a settlement conference.
- Control. A settlement conference offers you a sense of control that you won’t have in a court trial. You and your spouse are the ones reaching the important decisions, rather than a family court judge.
- Privacy. In Louisiana, your divorce settlement conference stays private, whereas with a courtroom trial, the entire case can be available to the public. The setting of a settlement conference remains completely confidential.
FAQs
What Should I Do if My Spouse Is Hiding Assets During Our Divorce?
If you believe your spouse is hiding assets during your divorce, you need to speak with an attorney as soon as possible. Nearly 40% of couples across America admit to some form of financial infidelity, including the hiding of assets during a divorce case. Warning signs can include sudden withdrawals and large gifts made to friends and family.
Is a Divorce Settlement Conference Ideal for a Gray Divorce?
In Louisiana, 32% of the population is over the age of 50, making gray divorce cases a strong reality. When couples over the age of 50 seek divorce, a settlement conference may offer a favorable resolution. There are certain aspects of a gray divorce–such as healthcare needs and alimony—that come to the forefront, and a divorce settlement conference can help the couple find amicable solutions.
Are There Any Disadvantages to a Divorce Settlement Conference?
Depending on the exact circumstances of your case, yes, there can be various disadvantages to a divorce settlement conference. First, when you and your spouse cannot communicate efficiently, then a settlement conference might not be the correct legal avenue. In other cases, a trial may offer you a better verdict depending on the issues of your case.
How Can I Properly Prepare for a Divorce Settlement Conference?
To properly prepare for a divorce settlement conference, the most important step is to meet with an attorney. Your attorney is here to review all of the details of your divorce and help you take the right steps to achieve an ideal outcome. You may need to collect and organize your financial records and create an outline of your goals so that your attorney can better understand your situation.
Hire a Divorce Settlement Conference Lawyer Serving Louisiana Families
Cost and time are two of the biggest worries individuals seeking divorce face in Louisiana. It is wise that you hire an experienced divorce settlement conference lawyer as soon as possible, someone who can guide you through every step and work to protect your rights. At Laura L. Davenport, LLC, our team is here to serve you. Contact our offices today to learn more about our family law services and schedule your initial consultation.
