How Much Does a Divorce Cost: The Complete Guide

How Much Does a Divorce Cost: The Complete Guide

The median cost of a divorce in the United States is around $7,000, but the average cost can range between $15,000 and $20,000. Keep in mind that these figures are not one-size-fits-all, as more complicated “contested” divorces can be significantly more expensive.

In addition to attorney fees, couples going through a divorce will also need to consider court and filing fees, property and asset division costs, child-related expenses (if applicable), and potentially mediation or collaborative divorce processes. Some couples might be able to minimize costs by reaching an agreement outside of court, while others may face higher expenses due to litigation and trial costs.

Key Takeaways

• Divorce costs vary based on complexity and whether it’s contested or uncontested.
• Additional expenses to consider include court fees and child-related costs.
• Minimizing costs may involve mediation and reaching agreements outside of court.

Understanding Divorce Cost

When you’re going through a divorce, it’s essential to understand the potential costs involved. The median cost of a divorce in the U.S. is $7,000, while the average is between $15,000 and $20,000. However, keep in mind that these figures can vary significantly based on various factors.

First, the complexity of your divorce plays a crucial role in determining the cost. Uncontested divorces, where both parties agree on all issues, are generally less expensive. In contrast, contested divorces that involve multiple disagreements can lead to higher legal fees and expert costs.

For example, if you need a Qualified Domestic Relations Order (QDRO) to divide pensions, it typically costs around $500 to $1,000 per QDRO.

The method you choose to handle your divorce also affects the cost. Collaborative and mediated divorces usually result in lower costs compared to traditional litigation. Additionally, selecting a fixed fee or limited-scope attorney may help you control costs. The full-scope attorney cost varies, with fees averaging at $4,000 for uncontested issues and $21,500 for those with a trial on three or more disputes.

Other elements like the location, assets, and required support can impact the overall cost of your divorce. If you have children, you may have to pay for mandatory parenting classes and deal with child support and custody arrangements that can further increase your costs. In some cases, alimony or spousal support may also contribute to the overall expense.

As you navigate through your divorce journey, being knowledgeable about the potential costs can help you make informed decisions and prepare for the financial implications.

Remember that hiring a competent attorney and exploring alternative dispute resolution methods, such as mediation or negotiation, can significantly influence the cost of your divorce.

Types of Divorce and Their Costs

Contested Divorce Cost

Contested divorces can be expensive since they often involve disputes over assets, custody, or alimony. The overall cost of a contested divorce can range from $5,000 to $30,000 or more, depending on the complexity of the case and the willingness of both parties to negotiate.

Attorney fees, court fees, and mediation expenses are the major cost components in this type of divorce. It’s crucial to understand this type of divorce’s financial implications so you can make informed decisions during the process.

Uncontested Divorce Cost

When both parties agree on significant terms, an uncontested divorce is often a more cost-effective option. Since there’s no need for lengthy court battles, the fees are significantly lower.

The cost of an uncontested divorce can range from $1,000 to $3,000. However, you should also be prepared to pay for various legal and administrative costs, such as filing fees and document preparation.

DIY Divorce Cost

If you and your spouse can agree on all aspects of the divorce and feel comfortable handling the paperwork and legal requirements on your own, a DIY divorce may be the right choice for you.

This option can be much more affordable, with costs potentially as low as $200. Bear in mind that while this is the most cost-effective method, it requires a thorough understanding of the legal process and proper completion of all necessary forms.

Mistakes made in DIY divorces could lead to additional costs in the future.

Online Divorce Services Cost

Online divorce services provide an alternative to traditional and DIY divorces by offering guidance and assistance with document preparation. The cost of these services typically varies from $199 to $500, depending on the specific service and the level of support offered.

While not as personalized as hiring an attorney, online divorce services can provide a more affordable and streamlined process. Make sure to research the options available and choose a reputable provider to ensure a smooth, cost-effective divorce experience.

Throughout the divorce process, it’s crucial to consider and weigh the different types of divorce and their costs. By understanding your options and making informed decisions, you can find a path that suits your needs while minimizing the financial impact on your life.

Role of Attorneys in Divorce

Divorce attorneys play a crucial role in helping you navigate the complex legal process of ending a marriage. They can provide valuable guidance and expertise in various aspects of the divorce process, including child custody, spousal support, and property division. In this section, we will discuss the process of hiring a divorce lawyer, the cost of their services, and alternative fee arrangements that may be available to you.

Hiring a Divorce Lawyer

When considering a divorce, it’s essential to hire a lawyer who specializes in family law to ensure your rights are protected. You should conduct thorough research and consult with multiple attorneys before making your decision.

Ask for recommendations from friends, family, or professional networks. When you meet with potential lawyers, discuss their experience, fees, and any special circumstances related to your case.

Consulting Attorney

Some individuals may choose to hire a consulting attorney instead of fully retaining a divorce lawyer. Consulting attorneys can offer guidance on specific aspects of the divorce process or assist with document preparation, while you represent yourself in court.

This option can save you money, but keep in mind that you will still be responsible for navigating the legal system on your own.

Cost of Hiring a Lawyer

The average cost of a divorce in the U.S. can range from $15,000 to $20,000, which includes attorney fees. Divorce lawyers typically charge an hourly rate that can range from $150 to $400, depending on their experience and location.

Urban areas and more experienced attorneys usually charge higher rates. Some lawyers charge a fixed rate for initial consultations or meetings.

Alternative Fee Arrangements

Depending on your financial situation and the complexity of your case, you may be able to negotiate alternative fee arrangements with your divorce attorney. Some lawyers offer sliding scale fees, where their hourly rate is adjusted based on your income and financial resources.

Others may provide limited scope representation, where they handle only specific parts of the divorce process. It’s essential to discuss these options with potential attorneys and choose the arrangement that best suits your needs and budget.

Remember, hiring an attorney is an integral part of the divorce process, and it’s crucial to find the right one for your specific situation. Consider the cost, experience, and alternative fee arrangements when selecting your divorce lawyer to ensure that you’re adequately represented and protected throughout the process.

Court and Filing Fees

When considering a divorce, it’s essential to be aware of the various fees involved. One of the primary expenses you’ll encounter is court and filing fees. These costs can vary depending on your state and the complexity of your case.

Filing fees are mandatory charges required by the court when you submit your divorce paperwork. In general, states with the highest filing fees are California ($435 – $450), Minnesota ($390 – $420), Florida ($350 – $410), and Utah ($310 – $330). However, it’s crucial to research the specific fees in your county, as they may differ from statewide averages.

Court fees, on the other hand, can involve additional expenses beyond the initial filing fee. These might include fees for serving and filing documents, obtaining certified copies, and court appearances. Not every divorce will incur all these costs, but you should be prepared to cover them if necessary.

To save on court and filing fees during your divorce, consider some of the following strategies:

• Opt for an uncontested divorce, which typically has lower fees and doesn’t require a trial;
• Seek a fee waiver if you qualify for financial assistance;
• Utilize alternative dispute resolution methods, such as mediation or collaborative law, to minimize the time and expense associated with litigation;
• Complete and file your divorce paperwork without the assistance of an attorney, if you feel confident in your ability to navigate the process on your own.

Understanding Mediation in Divorce

When going through a divorce, you and your spouse may choose to use divorce mediation as an alternative method of resolving conflicts. In this process, a neutral mediator helps both parties negotiate a mutually acceptable agreement. Divorce mediation is often seen as a more cooperative, cost-effective, and less time-consuming option compared to litigation.

Cost of Divorce Mediation

Private divorce mediation costs vary depending on factors such as the geographic area and the complexity of the issues involved. On average, the total cost for private divorce mediation falls between $3,000 and $8,000.

Usually, you and your spouse would split the bill, costing each of you around $1,500 to $4,000. It’s important to note that, while these costs might seem high, the financial and emotional costs of litigation tend to be much higher.

Factors affecting mediation costs:

• Geographic location
• Complexity of the case
• Number of sessions required
• Mediator’s fees

Benefits and Challenges of Divorce Mediation

There are several benefits to exploring mediation during your divorce process:

1. Cost-effective: Mediation is generally more affordable than traditional divorce litigation, potentially saving you and your spouse thousands of dollars.
2. Faster resolution: Mediation often takes less time compared to court proceedings, as you are working together to find a mutually beneficial agreement rather than engaging in a drawn-out legal battle.
3. Control and flexibility: You and your spouse have more control over the decision-making process and can custom-tailor your agreement to fit your unique circumstances.
4. Confidentiality: Mediation is a private process, keeping the details of your agreement confidential, unlike court proceedings, which are typically public.
5. Reduced conflict: Mediation promotes fruitful communication, fostering a more amicable and open environment during the decision-making process.

However, there are also challenges to divorce mediation that you should consider:

• Power imbalances: Mediation may not work efficiently in cases where there are significant power imbalances between the spouses.
• Lack of legal representation: While you can have legal representation during mediation, it is not a requirement. Some people may feel unsupported negotiating agreements without a lawyer present.
• Possibility of no resolution: Mediation can fail if parties are unable to come to an agreement, leading to the need for litigation or other means of resolution.

Child Related Costs

Cost of Child Support

When going through a divorce with children involved, one of the main financial concerns you may face is child support. Child support ensures that the non-custodial parent contributes to the financial needs of the child.

The amount of child support varies depending on factors like income levels, custody arrangements, and the child’s needs. Keep in mind that child support payments are separate from alimony and can change over time as your child’s needs evolve.

Cost of Child Custody

Another significant aspect of divorce with children is the cost associated with determining child custody. This cost can include attorney’s fees, court fees, and other expenses related to negotiating and establishing custody arrangements.

According to Lawyers.com, the average divorce involving child-related disputes costs around $15,500, including $13,500 in attorney’s fees.

Education Classes Cost

In some cases, the court may require you and your spouse to attend mandatory parental education classes. These classes help parents understand the impact of divorce on their children and how to effectively co-parent during and after the divorce process.

The cost of these classes varies depending on your location and the specific program, but you should be prepared to pay an enrollment fee.

Psychiatric Evaluations Cost

Sometimes, a court may order a psychiatric evaluation for you, your spouse, or your child to ensure the best interests of the child are being met. This can happen if there are concerns about mental health or if one parent is accusing the other of being unfit.

A psychiatric evaluation can be expensive, depending on the professional conducting the evaluation and the extent of the assessment required. It’s crucial to consider this potential cost when budgeting for your divorce with children involved.

Property and Assets Division Cost

Real Estate

When it comes to dividing real estate in a divorce, the cost can depend on the complexity of your assets. Properties acquired during the marriage are likely considered marital property and are subject to fair division. If you have multiple properties or if the value of your real estate has significantly changed during the marriage, a property appraisal may be necessary – leading to additional expense.

Forensic Accountants

Complex financial situations, especially when one spouse suspects hidden assets, can lead to the need for a forensic accountant. These professionals are skilled in investigating financial records and can help ensure that all assets are accurately disclosed during the divorce process.

The cost of hiring a forensic accountant varies but they can be a significant expense. Keep in mind their expertise can ultimately save you money by uncovering critical details about your joint finances.

Business Interests

When a divorce involves business interests, it’s likely to increase costs. To divide business assets fairly, you may need a business valuation expert to determine both the current worth and the company’s future potential. Like with real estate, the business valuation process can be expensive but is necessary for ensuring an equitable division of assets.

QDRO

Dividing retirement accounts and pensions can be a complex and costly aspect of divorce. In many cases, a Qualified Domestic Relations Order (QDRO) is required to divide these assets without adverse tax consequences. The cost of obtaining a QDRO can vary, but keep in mind that any mistakes made during this process can have long-term financial implications.

Litigation and Trial Costs

When going through a divorce, one significant factor you should consider is the potential litigation and trial costs. These costs are incurred when pursuing or defending a legal claim in relation to your divorce proceedings. They may vary based on the complexity of your case and the length of time it takes to resolve it.

During the litigation process, you may encounter a series of court appearances. These appearances can include case management conferences, mediation sessions, and ultimately, a trial if your case is not settled beforehand. It is essential that you are prepared for these appearances and understand the fees associated with each.

Attorney fees are a major component of litigation costs. The cost of legal representation may differ based on factors such as your attorney’s experience and geographical location, and whether they charge an hourly rate or a flat fee for their services. It is important to discuss these fees and your expectations with your attorney at the outset of your case to avoid any surprises.

Expert witness fees may also play a part in your litigation costs. Experts like financial analysts, psychologists, or appraisers can provide valuable insights to strengthen your case. Keep in mind that their fees can vary widely, so it is crucial to weigh the potential benefits of hiring an expert against the associated costs.

Finally, consider the cost of court fees and administrative expenses. Filing a divorce complaint in New Jersey, for example, has a fee of $325 if you have children and $300 if you do not. Additional fees may arise if you need to file motions or have documents served to your spouse throughout the litigation process.

Being aware of these litigation and trial costs, and discussing them with your attorney will help you make informed decisions throughout your divorce proceedings. While these costs are a significant consideration, it is important to find the right balance between managing expenses and effectively representing your interests during a divorce.

Additional Divorce Costs

Cost of Alimony

When going through a divorce, one of the financial aspects you may need to consider is alimony. Alimony involves payments from one spouse to another after the divorce as a form of financial support.

The amount and duration of alimony payments can vary depending on factors like the length of the marriage, each spouse’s earning capacity, and their individual needs. The court may determine the cost of alimony on a case-by-case basis, and it is essential to be aware of these potential expenses during your divorce process.

Debt Division

Another crucial aspect of divorce costs is the division of debts. You and your spouse’s shared financial obligations may include mortgages, credit card debts, and loans.

These debts will typically be divided between both parties in accordance with your state’s laws and regulations. It is vital to assess the total value of your debts to ensure a fair division and prevent any added financial burden following the divorce.

• Mortgages: If you jointly own property, you may need to decide whether to sell the property and split the proceeds or have one spouse buy out the other’s share.
• Credit Card Debts: Shared credit card debts must be divided equitably during the divorce process.
• Loans: If you have taken out any joint loans, these will also need to be divided in accordance with your state’s laws.

Soft Costs

In addition to the more tangible expenses such as alimony and debt division, there are various “soft costs” that can arise during a divorce. These costs may be harder to quantify but can still have a significant impact on your financial situation. Some examples of soft costs include:

• Emotional and psychological costs: The stress of going through a divorce can lead to therapy or counseling expenses.
• Lost time and productivity: The divorce process can be time-consuming, which may result in missed work days or reduced ability to focus on your career.
• Child-related expenses: If you have children, there may be additional costs related to custody arrangements or child support.

Understanding the various additional divorce costs, including alimony, debt division, and soft costs, can help you better prepare for the financial implications as you navigate through this challenging time. Being aware of these potential expenses will enable you to make informed decisions and protect your best interests during the divorce process.

The Cost of a Divorce Varies By State

Costs of divorce vary from state to state. Below is a comparison of the average costs of a divorce by state.

Alabama

Cost Factors	Average Cost
Uncontested Divorce (no children)	$3,000 to $5,000
Average Divorce Cost	$14,000 to $20,000
Hourly Rates for a Divorce Lawyer	$200 to $500
Filing Fees	$200 to $300

Alaska

Cost Factors	Average Cost
Uncontested Divorce (no children)	$3,000 to $5,000
Average Divorce Cost	$15,000 and $20,000
Hourly Rates for a Divorce Lawyer	$250 to $400
Filing Fees	$200

Arizona

Cost Factors	Average Cost
Uncontested Divorce (no children)	$600 to $7,500
Average Divorce Cost	$15,000 to $30,000 (per spouse)
Hourly Rates for a Divorce Lawyer	$250 to $550
Filing Fees	$220 to $410

Arkansas

Cost Factors	Average Cost
Uncontested Divorce (no children)	$200 to $2,000
Average Divorce Cost	$8,000 to $11,000
Hourly Rates for a Divorce Lawyer	$150 to $500
Filing Fees	$165

California

Cost Factors	Average Cost
Uncontested Divorce (no children)	$1,000 to $5,000
Average Divorce Cost	$15,000 to $30,000
Hourly Rates for a Divorce Lawyer	$150 to $450
Filing Fees	$250 to $500

Colorado

Cost Factors	Average Cost
Uncontested Divorce (no children)	$1,000 to $3,000
Average Divorce Cost	$9,800 to $11,800
Hourly Rates for a Divorce Lawyer	$230 to $400
Filing Fees	$105 to $230

Connecticut

Cost Factors	Average Cost
Uncontested Divorce (no children)	$1,850 to $8,850
Average Divorce Cost	$12,900 to $15,000
Hourly Rates for a Divorce Lawyer	$200 to $750
Filing Fees	$350

Delaware

Cost Factors	Average Cost
Uncontested Divorce (no children)	$5,000 to $10,000
Average Divorce Cost	$15,000 to $20,000
Hourly Rates for a Divorce Lawyer	$200 to $500
Filing Fees	$150

Georgia

Cost Factors	Average Cost
Uncontested Divorce (no children)	$500 to $1,000
Average Divorce Cost	$23,500
Hourly Rates for a Divorce Lawyer	$200 to $600
Filing Fees	$210

Florida

Cost Factors	Average Cost
Uncontested Divorce (no children)	$500 to $5,000
Average Divorce Cost	$13,500 to $20,000
Hourly Rates for a Divorce Lawyer	$175 to $500
Filing Fees	$408 or $409

Hawaii

Cost Factors	Average Cost
Uncontested Divorce (no children)	$1,500
Average Divorce Cost	$9,200
Hourly Rates for a Divorce Lawyer	$200 to $500
Filing Fees	$215

Idaho

Cost Factors	Average Cost
Uncontested Divorce (no children)	$1,500 and $3,000
Average Divorce Cost	$8,100
Hourly Rates for a Divorce Lawyer	$100 to $400
Filing Fees	$154 to $207

Illinois

Cost Factors	Average Cost
Uncontested Divorce (no children)	$1,000 – $5,000
Average Divorce Cost	$14,000
Hourly Rates for a Divorce Lawyer	$250
Filing Fees	$300

Indiana

Cost Factors	Average Cost
Uncontested Divorce (no children)	$200 – $1,000
Average Divorce Cost	$9,000
Hourly Rates for a Divorce Lawyer	$250
Filing Fees	$200 (usually less)

Iowa

Cost Factors	Average Cost
Uncontested Divorce (no children)	$5,000
Average Divorce Cost	$5,000 to $15,000
Hourly Rates for a Divorce Lawyer	$150 to $300
Filing Fees	$185

Kansas

Cost Factors	Average Cost
Uncontested Divorce (no children)	$1,500 to $2,500
Average Divorce Cost	$8,500
Hourly Rates for a Divorce Lawyer	$200 to $500
Filing Fees	$200

Kentucky

Cost Factors	Average Cost
Uncontested Divorce (no children)	$400 to $1,000
Average Divorce Cost	$8,100 – $11,100
Hourly Rates for a Divorce Lawyer	$200 to $500
Filing Fees	$150 to $250

Louisiana

Cost Factors	Average Cost
Uncontested Divorce (no children)	$500 to $1,000
Average Divorce Cost	$17,000 to $22,000
Hourly Rates for a Divorce Lawyer	$75 to $400
Filing Fees	$200 to $350

Maine

Cost Factors	Average Cost
Uncontested Divorce (no children)	$3,500+
Average Divorce Cost	$11,000 to $16,000
Hourly Rates for a Divorce Lawyer	$200 to $400
Filing Fees	$120

Massachusetts

Cost Factors	Average Cost
Uncontested Divorce (no children)	$1,500 to $4,000
Average Divorce Cost	$12,000 to $16,500
Hourly Rates for a Divorce Lawyer	$100 to $500
Filing Fees	$200 to $400

Maryland

Cost Factors	Average Cost
Uncontested Divorce (no children)	$1,000 to $10,000
Average Divorce Cost	$11,000
Hourly Rates for a Divorce Lawyer	$1,000 to $5,000
Filing Fees	$165

Michigan

Cost Factors	Average Cost
Uncontested Divorce (no children)	$2,500 to $5,000
Average Divorce Cost	$14,000 to $18,000
Hourly Rates for a Divorce Lawyer	$150 to $500
Filing Fees	$175 to $255

Minnesota

Cost Factors	Average Cost
Uncontested Divorce (no children)	$2,000 to $5,000
Average Divorce Cost	$5,000 to $10,000
Hourly Rates for a Divorce Lawyer	$50 to $500+
Filing Fees	$400

Mississippi

Cost Factors	Average Cost
Uncontested Divorce (no children)	$5,000
Average Divorce Cost	$8,000 to $11,300
Hourly Rates for a Divorce Lawyer	$250 to $500
Filing Fees	$150

Missouri

Cost Factors	Average Cost
Uncontested Divorce (no children)	$1,000 to $2,000
Average Divorce Cost	$13,500 to $20,200
Hourly Rates for a Divorce Lawyer	$150 to $1,000
Filing Fees	$130 to $225

Montana

Cost Factors	Average Cost
Uncontested Divorce (no children)	$1,100 to $5,100
Average Divorce Cost	$6,000 to $15,000
Hourly Rates for a Divorce Lawyer	$100 to $500
Filing Fees	$161

Nebraska

Cost Factors	Average Cost
Uncontested Divorce (no children)	$1,000 to $6,000
Average Divorce Cost	$3,000 to $15,000
Hourly Rates for a Divorce Lawyer	$50 to $650
Filing Fees	$150 to $250

Nevada

Cost Factors	Average Cost
Uncontested Divorce (no children)	$1,000 to $2,500
Average Divorce Cost	$10,250 – $14,000
Hourly Rates for a Divorce Lawyer	$200 and $500
Filing Fees	$250 to $400

New Hampshire

Cost Factors	Average Cost
Uncontested Divorce (no children)	$2,000 to $5,000
Average Divorce Cost	$12,300 to $18,500
Hourly Rates for a Divorce Lawyer	$150 to $500
Filing Fees	$250

New Jersey

Cost Factors	Average Cost
Uncontested Divorce (no children)	$500 and $2,500
Average Divorce Cost	$12,000 to $15,000
Hourly Rates for a Divorce Lawyer	$200 and $500
Filing Fees	$300

New Mexico

Cost Factors	Average Cost
Uncontested Divorce (no children)	$1,000
Average Divorce Cost	$2,500 to $8,000
Hourly Rates for a Divorce Lawyer	$150 to $40
Filing Fees	$135 to $155

New York

Cost Factors	Average Cost
Uncontested Divorce (no children)	$5,500
Average Divorce Cost	$16,000
Hourly Rates for a Divorce Lawyer	$150 to $500
Filing Fees	$335

North Carolina

Cost Factors	Average Cost
Uncontested Divorce (no children)	$4,000
Average Divorce Cost	$20,000
Hourly Rates for a Divorce Lawyer	$250 to $600
Filing Fees	$225

North Dakota

Cost Factors	Average Cost
Uncontested Divorce (no children)	$1,000 to $2,000
Average Divorce Cost	$8,100 – $11,000
Hourly Rates for a Divorce Lawyer	$200 to $500
Filing Fees	$289.00

Ohio

Cost Factors	Average Cost
Uncontested Divorce (no children)	$1,500 to $2,500
Average Divorce Cost	$1,500 to $15,000
Hourly Rates for a Divorce Lawyer	$250 to $400
Filing Fees	$176 to $191

Oklahoma

Cost Factors	Average Cost
Uncontested Divorce (no children)	$1,000 – $3,000
Average Divorce Cost	$7,000 – $11,500
Hourly Rates for a Divorce Lawyer	$250
Filing Fees	$200 – $500

Oregon

Cost Factors	Average Cost
Uncontested Divorce (no children)	$200 – $2,500
Average Divorce Cost	$5,000 – $20,000
Hourly Rates for a Divorce Lawyer	$200 to $500
Filing Fees	$300

Pennsylvania

Cost Factors	Average Cost
Uncontested Divorce (no children)	$500
Average Divorce Cost	$14,500
Hourly Rates for a Divorce Lawyer	$250 – $350
Filing Fees	$300 – $400

Rhode Island

Cost Factors	Average Cost
Uncontested Divorce (no children)	$1,500 to $5,500
Average Divorce Cost	$10,000
Hourly Rates for a Divorce Lawyer	$150 to $500
Filing Fees	$160

South Carolina

Cost Factors	Average Cost
Uncontested Divorce (no children)	$500
Average Divorce Cost	$10,000 to $15,000
Hourly Rates for a Divorce Lawyer	$150 to $450
Filing Fees	$150 to $500

South Dakota

Cost Factors	Average Cost
Uncontested Divorce (no children)	$3,000 to $5,000
Average Divorce Cost	$3,000 to $20,000
Hourly Rates for a Divorce Lawyer	$150 to $500
Filing Fees	$95

Tennessee

Cost Factors	Average Cost
Uncontested Divorce (no children)	$1,000 or less
Average Divorce Cost	$12,500 – $19,000
Hourly Rates for a Divorce Lawyer	$200 – $400
Filing Fees	$250 – $400

Texas

Cost Factors	Average Cost
Uncontested Divorce (no children)	$300
Average Divorce Cost	$23,500
Hourly Rates for a Divorce Lawyer	$130 to $415
Filing Fees	$250 to $350

Utah

Cost Factors	Average Cost
Uncontested Divorce (no children)	$1,000 – $8,000
Average Divorce Cost	$13,200 – $19,800
Hourly Rates for a Divorce Lawyer	$200 – $500
Filing Fees	$325

Vermont

Cost Factors	Average Cost
Uncontested Divorce (no children)	$1,500
Average Divorce Cost	$9,100 to $12,500
Hourly Rates for a Divorce Lawyer	$225 to $310
Filing Fees	$263

Virginia

Cost Factors	Average Cost
Uncontested Divorce (no children)	$500 – $800
Average Divorce Cost	$13,000 – $14,500
Hourly Rates for a Divorce Lawyer	$150 to $500
Filing Fees	Starting at $86

Washington, DC

Cost Factors	Average Cost
Uncontested Divorce (no children)	$1,500 to $3,000
Average Divorce Cost	$9,000 – $13,800
Hourly Rates for a Divorce Lawyer	$150 to $500
Filing Fees	$200 – $500

Washington State

Cost Factors	Average Cost
Uncontested Divorce (no children)	$500 to $700
Average Divorce Cost	$10,500 to $15,500
Hourly Rates for a Divorce Lawyer	$260 to $300
Filing Fees	$350

West Virginia

Cost Factors	Average Cost
Uncontested Divorce (no children)	$500 to $1500
Average Divorce Cost	$10,000 to $15,000
Hourly Rates for a Divorce Lawyer	$150 to $350
Filing Fees	$135

Wisconsin

Cost Factors	Average Cost
Uncontested Divorce (no children)	$1,500 to $3,000
Average Divorce Cost	$11,300
Hourly Rates for a Divorce Lawyer	$250
Filing Fees	$150 to $300

Wyoming

Cost Factors	Average Cost
Uncontested Divorce (no children)	$400 to $600
Average Divorce Cost	$5,000 to $20,000
Hourly Rates for a Divorce Lawyer	$150 to $360
Filing Fees	$85

Wrap Up: Estimating Divorce Costs

When estimating the costs of your divorce, consider that typical divorce costs may range from around $7,000 to an average of $15,000 to $20,000. However, costs can be influenced by several factors, including your location and the complexity of your case. For instance, contested divorces with complicated assets or child custody battles may drive costs higher.

In determining the costs, you should keep in mind that attorney and legal fees often make up a large portion of the expenses. Additionally, filing fees, administrative fees, court fees, and mediation costs might contribute to the total amount.

Be aware that the location of your divorce can also influence the expenses. Different states have varying average filing fees and attorney costs, which may impact the overall cost of your divorce. For example, Alabama’s average filing fee is $400, while Arizona’s average filing fee is $280. Local laws and regulations may also dictate specific processes that might affect the price.