Introduction
Divorce can be one of the most expensive legal processes individuals face. Legal costs vary widely depending on whether the divorce is contested, the complexity of the case, and the need for court involvement. This guide explains how much a divorce typically costs in the United States and what factors influence total expenses.
Average Cost of Divorce in the U.S
The average cost of divorce in the United States ranges from $7,000 to $15,000, but expenses can be significantly lower or higher depending on circumstances.
Uncontested divorces may cost a few thousand dollars, while contested divorces involving litigation can exceed $30,000 or more.
Uncontested vs Contested Divorce Costs
Uncontested Divorce
- Typical cost: $1,500–$5,000
- Minimal court involvement
- Lower attorney fees
Contested Divorce
- Typical cost: $15,000–$30,000+
- Court hearings and litigation
- Higher attorney and court costs
What Affects Divorce Legal Costs?
Several factors influence divorce expenses:
- Attorney hourly rates
- Court filing fees
- Child custody or support disputes
- Property division complexity
- Length of the case
Higher conflict usually leads to higher legal costs.
Divorce Court Fees and Additional Costs
In addition to lawyer fees, divorcing parties often pay:
- Court filing fees
- Motion and amendment fees
- Mediation or evaluation costs
For a breakdown of court-related expenses, see our guide on court costs in the United States.
Can Court Costs be Reduced?
Divorce costs may be reduced by:
- Choosing mediation
- Keeping the divorce uncontested
- Limiting court filings
- Communicating efficiently with attorneys
Understanding billing structures such as lawyer fees in the United States can also help manage expenses.
Estimating Total Divorce Costs
Estimating total divorce costs requires accounting for attorney fees, court costs, and case complexity. Preparing financially before filing can prevent unexpected expenses.
For a complete overview of legal expenses by case category, visit our Legal Costs by Case Type hub.