How Much Does a Divorce Cost?

The average cost of a divorce in the United States is around $10,000-20,000 and trending upward. Average costs in densely populated areas such as Texas or California tend to cost more. Still, no two divorces are alike, and the costs of a divorce can vary wildly depending on a variety of factors, including whether the divorce is contested or uncontested, whether you litigate or choose alternative dispute resolution, and whether you opt for a DIY approach or hire legal help.

Divorce takes time and money, and the various fees and costs can be disorienting if you don’t have an idea of what to expect going in. There are considerations that go beyond paying your attorney fees. States and counties also have their own filing fees and court costs to consider. This article examines the many factors that may influence the cost of your divorce.

To get the most accurate information about what it would cost you to divorce in your state, seek the legal advice of a divorce lawyer in your area. Many law firms provide initial free consultations.

Factors That Influence Divorce Costs

Here are some factors that influence the ultimate cost of a divorce proceeding.

Contested vs. Uncontested Divorce

If there are no legal disputes at issue between you and your spouse, you will most likely opt to have an uncontested divorce. Divorcing spouses who maintain an amicable relationship often engage in divorce mediation. This process is moderated by a neutral third party (often a retired judge) and can be significantly cheaper than a lengthy court battle. Another alternative to divorce litigation is collaborative divorce.

In a contested divorce, legal fees tend to be higher due to more attorney billing hours, court filing fees, etc. An attorney can advise you on whether you’re entitled to child support and spousal support/alimony and whether a lengthy litigation process would be worth the financial and emotional toll.

Divorcing With Children

Additionally, divorce cases where minor children are involved tend to complicate matters even further. As with most legal issues, when things get complicated, the legal expenses tend to rise.

Court Fees and Miscellaneous Legal Costs

Here are some additional costs that people going through a divorce might not anticipate:

• Filing fees at the county courthouse
• Court-ordered education such as co-parenting classes
• Court-ordered psychiatric evaluations for adults or any minor children
• Mediation fees to pay neutral party and attorneys (should you choose to use attorneys in your mediation)

Get the Right Divorce Guidance

The Super Lawyers directory contains the top divorce attorneys in your area. They can guide you through this process and safeguard your rights and interests.

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Should I Speak to a Divorce Lawyer?

A complicated and emotionally taxing divorce proceeding can be made easier with a solid attorney-client relationship. A family law attorney can provide legal advice on all aspects of the divorce case, including how marital assets are divided in the divorce process, child custody, restraining orders, and more, all while guiding you through the nuances of divorce court.

When sitting down with an attorney, consider which questions you’d like to ask them and what answers your ideal attorney might provide. One important matter is cost. Ask whether they charge their attorney’s fees on an hourly rate, payment plan, retainer, or some other billing method.

Find Legal Help

Visit the Super Lawyers directory to find an experienced divorce attorney in your jurisdiction.