What is the filing fee for divorce in California?

California divorce filing fees are around $435 to $450 depending on the county. Fee waivers are available if you qualify based on income.

How much does an uncontested divorce cost?

An uncontested divorce in California typically costs $500 to $2,500 total, including filing fees and document preparation. This assumes both parties agree on all major issues.

Why are contested divorces so expensive?

Contested divorces require attorney time for negotiations, court appearances, and document preparation. Each dispute over custody, property, or support adds complexity and billable hours.

What Does Divorce Actually Cost in California?

Understanding the real costs of divorce helps you make informed decisions. Here's what California divorces actually cost in 2025.

First, take a breath

Money stress on top of divorce stress is a lot. Whatever anxiety you're feeling about costs right now is completely valid. The good news: understanding the real numbers often feels better than imagining the worst. Let's walk through what divorce actually costs in California.

The honest answer: it depends on conflict

Divorce costs vary based on one factor: how much you and your spouse disagree. An uncontested divorce where you both agree on everything can cost under $1,000. A contested divorce with custody disputes can exceed $50,000 per person. Most divorces fall somewhere in between. The more you can work out together, the less it costs.

Court fees

Filing fees run around $435 to $450 depending on your county. If your spouse files a response, that's another $435 to $450. Add service costs and miscellaneous fees, and total court costs typically land between $500 and $700 for an uncontested divorce. If money is tight, fee waivers are available. Many people qualify.

Uncontested divorce: $500 to $2,500

If you and your spouse agree on property division, support, and custody, you can complete the divorce without attorneys. Costs include filing fees ($435 to $450), document preparation ($0 to $500 if DIY, $200 to $1,500 with a service), and possibly a mediator ($200 to $500 for a session). Total: roughly $500 to $2,500.

Mediated divorce: $3,000 to $8,000

If you need help reaching agreement but want to avoid court battles, mediation is the middle path. Mediators charge $200 to $500 per hour. Most couples need 3 to 10 sessions. Add filing fees and document preparation. Some couples also hire reviewing attorneys ($500 to $1,500 each) to review the final agreement.

Contested divorce with attorneys: $15,000 to $30,000+ per spouse

When you cannot agree and need attorneys to negotiate or litigate, costs escalate quickly. California family law attorneys charge $250 to $500+ per hour. A moderately contested divorce requires 30 to 100+ attorney hours per side. Court appearances, depositions, and expert witnesses add more. Highly contested cases with custody evaluations or business valuations can exceed $50,000 per spouse.

Hidden costs people forget

Beyond legal fees, divorce has other costs. Setting up a new household: $2,000 to $10,000+. Refinancing the house (if keeping it): closing costs of 2% to 5% of loan value. QDRO for retirement account division: $500 to $1,500. Updating estate plans: $500 to $2,000. Therapy or counseling: $100 to $300 per session. These add up.

Ways to keep costs down

The biggest factor is agreement. The more you and your spouse can work out together, the less you spend on professionals to work it out for you. Consider mediation before litigation. If you go the uncontested route, document preparation services can handle the paperwork for a fraction of attorney costs. Gather your financial documents early. Being organized saves everyone time and money.

You have options

Divorce doesn't have to drain your savings. Many people complete uncontested divorces for under $1,500. Even if your situation is more complex, knowing the real cost ranges helps you plan and make informed decisions. You're already doing the right thing by understanding your options.