How Much Does It Cost to Get a Divorce?
Divorce costs can vary significantly, influenced by several factors such as contestation, the method of divorce, location, and the complexity of the case. On average, divorce costs $11,300 per spouse, but over 40% of individuals spend less than $5,000, illustrating a broad cost spectrum.
Key Expenses in Divorce
Filing Fees: State divorce filing fees range from $80 to $450. You can request a fee waiver if you can't afford these fees.
Attorney Fees: The bulk of divorce expenses. The average hourly rate for divorce attorneys is $270, but can go higher depending on the case and location. Retainer fees, hourly rates, and flat fees are common billing methods.
Divorce Papers: Free if completed yourself; otherwise, attorney or paralegal services cost extra. Serving the papers usually costs $20 to $100.
Other Expenses: These include costs for experts, counseling, parenting classes, and custody evaluations. Temporary spousal and child support may also be ordered by the court early in the process.
Cost of Divorce With a Lawyer
The cost varies depending on the number of contested issues. For example, couples with no contested issues spent around $4,000 on attorney fees. Couples with at least one contested issue who settled before trial spent an average of $10,400, while those going to trial spent around $17,700.
Cost of Divorce Without a Lawyer
A simple, amicable divorce without lawyers involves mainly court filing fees. Mediation costs range from $3,000 to $8,000, depending on complexity.
Factors That Increase Divorce Costs
- Appraisals: Valuing real estate, businesses, and valuables.
- Children: Custody and child support decisions.
- Complex Assets: More assets mean higher costs.
- High-Conflict Situations: Disagreements and frequent changes escalate costs.
- Expert Witnesses: Additional fees for expert testimonies.
- Maintenance: Alimony or spousal support issues.
- Discovery: Subpoenas and depositions increase attorney hours and costs.
Reducing Divorce Costs
- Pro se Representation: Handle the case yourself.
- Mediation: Work with a mediator to reach an agreement.
- Collaborative Divorce: Attorneys negotiate without going to trial.
- Negotiation: Resolve issues directly with your spouse.
- Online Services: Platforms like Divorce.com offer affordable solutions starting at $599.
Understanding these factors and options can help manage and reduce the costs associated with divorce.