Prices for a simple divorce vary by method and state. The main cost drivers are filing fees, attorney or mediator charges, service of process, and court costs. A clear cost range helps buyers compare DIY routes versus professional help.
| Item | Low | Average | High | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Filing & Court Fees | $120 | $350 | $750 | Varies by state and county |
| Attorney Fees (Uncontested) | $1,000 | $2,500 | $5,000 | Flat or hourly; more with complex issues |
| Mediation / Settlement | $100 | $1,000 | $3,000 | Per-session or overall settlement |
| Service Of Process | $20 | $60 | $150 | Typically by sheriff or process server |
| Document Preparation / Notarization | $50 | $250 | $1,000 | Includes petitions, agreements |
| Total Range (DIY to Full Representation) | $150 | $2,000 | $8,000 | Assumes uncontested case with basic disclosures |
| Per-Hour Rates (If Attorney) | $75 | $250 | $450 | Typically $150–$350 in many states |
Assumptions: region, case complexity, and compliance with local rules; uncontested or simple custody issues included.
Overview Of Costs
Typical cost ranges for a simple divorce in the U.S. cover DIY approaches, mediation, and professional representation. For a straightforward, uncontested case, total costs often fall between $150 and $8,000 depending on method, location, and whether any child or property issues exist. The main cost drivers are filing fees, attorney or mediator charges, and service of process. DIY paths lean toward the lower end; hiring counsel or a mediator raises the total but increases certainty and speed.
Cost Breakdown
| Component | Low | Average | High | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Filing & Court Fees | $120 | $350 | $750 | State/county dependent |
| Attorney Fees | $1,000 | $2,500 | $5,000 | Uncontested; hourly may apply |
| Mediation/Negotiation | $100 | $1,000 | $3,000 | Per-session or total |
| Service of Process | $20 | $60 | $150 | Delivery to spouse |
| Document Prep / Notary | $50 | $250 | $1,000 | Petition, stipulations, orders |
| Travel / Misc. | $0 | $100 | $500 | Remote or local filings |
| Taxes, Fees, and Other | $0 | $50 | $300 | Miscellaneous |
Assumptions: region, service speed, and whether custody or property is involved.
What Drives Price
Location, case complexity, and representation choice drive the price of a simple divorce. Filing fees vary widely by state and county. Attorney rates reflect hourly or flat-fee structures, with additional costs for document preparation or court-ordered services. Mediation can cap costs when parties collaborate, but added sessions or neutral experts increase the total. Complex assets, debt division, or parenting plans raise both time and cost.
Regional Price Differences
Prices shift across regions. In urban centers, filing fees and attorney rates tend to be higher, while rural areas may have lower base costs but limited access to mediators or counsel. For a basic uncontested divorce, typical totals may range as follows:
- West Coast (Urban): $2,500–$7,000
- Midwest / South (Suburban): $1,800–$5,000
- Rural / Smaller Counties: $1,000–$3,500
Assumptions: state laws, county filing fees, and local rates apply.
Labor, Hours & Rates
Time invested by parties and professionals directly affects cost. DIY paths reduce labor charges but require more personal time. If using an attorney, typical uncontested divorce may require 2–6 hours of attorney time plus preparation, while mediator-led routes may need 4–12 hours of neutral facilitation. Hourly rates commonly fall in the $150–$350 range, depending on market and experience.
Additional & Hidden Costs
Expect possible extras that can raise the price beyond base estimates. These include expedited filings, court reporter fees for hearings, parenting plan modifications, or costly service methods. Some jurisdictions levy mandatory contributions to state child support enforcement or mandatory education courses. Budget for contingencies even in simple cases.
Real-World Pricing Examples
Three scenario cards illustrate typical outcomes for a simple divorce with differing levels of reliance on professionals.
- Basic — DIY petition, self-service filing, no attorney, no mediation. Specs: no children, no assets. Hours: 1–2 by the filer. Per-unit: $0 filing, $0 service; Total: $150–$350.
- Mid-Range — Uncontested with attorney review and one mediation session. Specs: joint custody plan, modest assets. Hours: 4–8 by attorney plus 1 mediation. Per-unit: $1,000–$3,000 attorney; Total: $2,000–$5,000.
- Premium — Attorney-drafted agreement, multiple mediation sessions, possible ancillary filing. Specs: complex assets, custody considerations. Hours: 8–20+ by attorney. Per-unit: $3,000–$7,000 attorney; Total: $6,000–$10,000+.
Assumptions: uncontested cases; regional variance influences final totals.