Illinois Divorce Cost
How much does divorce cost in Illinois? Detailed breakdown of filing fees, attorney costs, mediation, and hidden expenses — plus how to save up to 90%. Updated for 2026.
Illinois Divorce Cost Comparison
| Method | Cost Range |
|---|---|
| Divorce.ai | $299 + $337 filing fee |
| DIY (Pro Se) | $337 filing fee only |
| Mediation | $3,000-$8,000(~$250/session) |
| Uncontested + Attorney | $1,500-$5,000 |
| Contested + Attorney | $10,000-$25,000+ |
Illinois Divorce Fee Breakdown
| Court Filing Fee | $337 |
| Process Server | $80 |
| Certified Copy | $10 |
| Parenting Course | $55 |
| Minimum Total (DIY) | $427 |
County Fee Variations
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Attorney Costs in Illinois
Divorce attorneys in Illinois typically charge between $254 and $500 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
$10,000+
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
Illinois offers filing fee waivers for individuals who cannot afford to pay.
Use form FW-CIV Application for Waiver of Court Fees (statewide standardized form). Full waiver for income at or below 125% of federal poverty guidelines or recipients of public benefits (SSI, SNAP, TANF, Medicaid). Partial waiver for income at or below 200% of federal poverty guidelines. File the application along with or before the petition; a judge reviews and rules. Must provide proof of income, expenses, asset values, and public benefit documentation (735 ILCS 5/5-105).
Income threshold: 125% of federal poverty guidelines for full waiver; 200% for partial waiver. Recipients of SSI, SNAP, or TANF automatically qualify.
Required form: FW-CIV Application for Waiver of Court Fees
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