May I ask the Court to have the other party pay for my legal expenses?

Your attorney will usually seek payment of his/her fees and costs from the other party. However, the income of each spouse, and his/her conduct during the litigation, is of particular importance. The Court will consider your spouse's ability to pay your fees/costs, and your need for financial help. A monetary sanction (punishment) may also be awarded if the other spouse conducts himself/herself in such a grievous manner that the other spouse incurred additional attorney's fees and costs unnecessarily. Notwithstanding the request for fees and costs, however, you are still responsible to pay your own fees and costs to your attorney. Any award made by the Court will usually be applied to any unpaid balance or reimbursed to you at the conclusion of the case.

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