Divorce Appraisals: What The Work Involves And How To Start
October 30, 2026 · 5 min read
Divorce work can be some of the best private work an appraiser does: the fees reflect the care it needs, and family law offices send repeat business. It also asks more of you than a typical assignment. Here's what to know before you start.
What's different about divorce work
- Two sides. One spouse may hire you, both may, or the court may appoint you. Know who your client is.
- Effective dates. Sometimes it's today; sometimes it's the date of separation or filing.
- Access. One spouse may still live in the home and may not be eager to let you in. Plan for it.
- Scrutiny. The other side may hire their own appraiser to review your work.
- Testimony. Some assignments end with a deposition or a court date.
Have these in place first
- A written engagement letter naming the client, intended use, intended users and effective date.
- A conflict check so you haven't worked for the other spouse or their counsel.
- Payment up front (court-approval holds are the usual exception).
- Training. If testimony is possible, take a course on expert witness work before you accept.
- Careful records. Every call, text and email saved with the order.
Where referrals come from
- Family law attorneys and paralegals
- Divorce mediators
- Financial advisors who specialize in divorce
- CPAs
A short note to each, plus an easy way for their clients to request a quote, is usually enough to start.
Where Go1000.ai fits
Go1000.ai has the pieces divorce work needs: engagement letters, conflict checks before payment, payment up front with court-approval holds, and every message saved to the workfile. Start a free trial.