How much will this cost?
It all depends on how the two parties conduct themselves. If separating partners are collaborative and reasonable they can get to the finish line for approximately $2,000.
The first step is for each party to have a consultation with a family lawyer so they know what the parameters of a reasonable settlement are. With that knowledge they can negotiate their own agreement at the kitchen table, and then have a lawyer prepare a Separation Agreement and provide one party with Independent Legal Advice (ILA). In that case I quote an all-in fee of $1,500. The only other scenario where a fee quote is fixed is for an uncontested Divorce, which is $1,200 to $1,500 if there are minor children involved. If legal services are required to negotiate a Separation Agreement, the cost is a function of the time spent.
In my practice I offer two guarantees. First, that I provide honest and practical advice, and second, that I bill honestly in accordance with the actual time spent on your case.