Texas Family Pricing: 2026 Litigation Math Guide

Q: How much does family law cost in Texas?

Family law cases typically cost $2,500–$6,000 for simple matters and $10,000–$35,000+ for contested cases .

Introduction

Family law legal costs in Texas are generally lower than in states like California or New York, but expenses can still become significant depending on the type of case and level of conflict. Disputes involving child custody, support, or complex asset division often lead to higher attorney fees and longer court timelines.

This guide explains average family law legal costs in Texas, including lawyer fees, court costs, and the factors that most influence total expenses.

Average Family Law Lawyer Fees in Texas

Family law attorneys in Texas typically bill hourly, though flat fees may be available for simple or uncontested matters.

Type of Case / Attorney	Typical Cost
Standard family law attorney	$250 – $450 per hour
Highly experienced or complex-case attorney	$450 – $700+ per hour
Simple or uncontested cases	$2,500 – $6,000 total
Contested custody or asset cases	$10,000 – $35,000+

Rates are generally higher in major metro areas such as Dallas, Houston, and Austin.

For national comparison: How Much Do Lawyers Cost in the United States?

Texas Family Law Court Costs and Fees

In addition to attorney fees, family law cases in Texas involve court filing and procedural expenses.

Court / Procedural Cost	Typical Amount
Divorce or family law filing fee	~$300
Service of process	$75 – $150
Motion and hearing fees	Varies by case
Mediation or parenting classes	Varies by county

Court costs are usually lower than attorney fees but still contribute to total expenses.

Related guide: Court Costs in the United States

Common Family Law Case Types in Texas

Family law costs vary significantly depending on the type of case, including:

Cases involving children or disputed finances are typically the most expensive.

Factors That Increase Family Law Legal Costs in Texas

Family law expenses in Texas increase when cases involve:

Contested custody or child support disputes
Complex property or debt division
Multiple court hearings or motions
Use of mediators, parenting coordinators, or evaluators
Prolonged litigation timelines

The longer a case remains unresolved, the higher the total cost.

Uncontested vs Contested Family Law Cases

Uncontested Cases

Faster resolution
Limited attorney involvement
Lower overall legal costs

Contested Cases

Extensive legal representation
Multiple hearings and negotiations
Significantly higher expenses

Mediation is widely used in Texas to reduce both cost and time.

How Texas Family Law Costs Compare to Other States

Family law legal costs in Texas are generally lower than California and New York, and comparable to Florida and Georgia.

Nationwide comparison: Legal Costs by State

How to Reduce Family Law Legal Costs in Texas

Ways to manage family law expenses in Texas include:

Resolving disputes through mediation
Limiting unnecessary court filings
Organizing financial and custody documents early
Keeping attorney communication focused and efficient
Reducing conflict whenever possible

Lower conflict is the single most effective cost-control strategy.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does family law cost in Texas?

Family law cases typically cost $2,500–$6,000 for simple matters and $10,000–$35,000+ for contested cases.

Why are custody cases more expensive?

Custody disputes often involve mediation, hearings, and sometimes expert evaluations, all of which increase attorney time and costs.

Are court fees included in attorney fees?

No. Filing fees, service costs, and mediation fees are usually billed separately.

Is mediation required in Texas family law cases?

Many Texas courts strongly encourage or require mediation, especially in custody disputes.

Are uncontested divorces cheaper in Texas?

Yes. Uncontested cases resolve faster and require far less attorney involvement.

Is Texas cheaper than California for family law?

Yes. Texas generally has lower attorney rates and court costs than California.

External Resources

Texas Attorney General (Child Support)
Texas Judicial Branch
Texas Family Code

Conclusion

Family law legal costs in Texas can range from a few thousand dollars for uncontested matters to tens of thousands for complex or highly contested cases. Attorney fees, court costs, and the level of dispute all play major roles in determining total expenses.

Understanding these costs helps individuals plan financially and make informed legal decisions when navigating family law matters in Texas.