California Divorce Cost
How much does divorce cost in California? Detailed breakdown of filing fees, attorney costs, mediation, and hidden expenses — plus how to save up to 90%. Updated for 2026.
California Divorce Cost Comparison
| Method | Cost Range |
|---|---|
| Divorce.ai | $299 + $435 filing fee |
| DIY (Pro Se) | $435 filing fee only |
| Mediation | $3,000-$8,000(~$600/session) |
| Uncontested + Attorney | $3,500-$8,000 |
| Contested + Attorney | $15,000-$50,000+ |
California Divorce Fee Breakdown
| Court Filing Fee | $435 |
| Process Server | $100 |
| Certified Copy | $25 |
| Parenting Course | $50 |
| Minimum Total (DIY) | $560 |
County Fee Variations
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Attorney Costs in California
Divorce attorneys in California typically charge between $300 and $600 per hour. Total costs depend on how many hours your case requires.
Simple Uncontested
$1,500-$3,000
5-15 hours
Moderate Complexity
$5,000-$15,000
20-60 hours
Highly Contested
$15,000+
60+ hours
Hidden Costs to Watch For
QDRO (Retirement Division)
If dividing retirement accounts, a Qualified Domestic Relations Order costs $500-$1,500 to prepare.
Real Estate Appraisals
Professional home appraisals run $300-$600 each and may be needed for property division.
Business Valuations
If either spouse owns a business, a formal valuation can cost $5,000-$25,000.
Custody Evaluations
Court-ordered custody evaluations cost $3,000-$10,000 in contested custody cases.
Fee Waiver Information
California offers filing fee waivers for individuals who cannot afford to pay.
Use Form FW-001 (Request to Waive Court Fees) to request a fee waiver if you cannot afford the filing fee. Available for households earning below 125% of federal poverty guidelines or receiving certain public benefits (Medi-Cal, food stamps, SSI, SSP, CAPI, CalWORKs, Tribal TANF, IHSS).
Income threshold: 125% of federal poverty guidelines, or receiving public benefits (Medi-Cal, food stamps, SSI, SSP, CAPI, CalWORKs, Tribal TANF, IHSS)
Required form: FW-001 (Request to Waive Court Fees)
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