New Jersey Divorce Cost
How much does divorce cost in New Jersey? Detailed breakdown of filing fees, attorney costs, mediation, and hidden expenses — plus how to save up to 90%. Updated for 2026.
New Jersey Divorce Cost Comparison
| Method | Cost Range |
|---|---|
| Divorce.ai | $299 + $300 filing fee |
| DIY (Pro Se) | $300 filing fee only |
| Mediation | $3,000-$8,000(~$300/session) |
| Uncontested + Attorney | $4,500-$6,500 |
| Contested + Attorney | $7,500-$35,000+ |
New Jersey Divorce Fee Breakdown
| Court Filing Fee | $300 |
| Process Server | $300 |
| Certified Copy | $25 |
| Parenting Course | $25 |
| Minimum Total (DIY) | $625 |
County Fee Variations
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Attorney Costs in New Jersey
Divorce attorneys in New Jersey typically charge between $225 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
$7,500+
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
New Jersey offers filing fee waivers for individuals who cannot afford to pay.
Parties may apply for a fee waiver using form CN 11208 (General Fee Waiver). To qualify, household income must be at or below 150% of the federal poverty level and the applicant must have no more than $2,500 in liquid assets (cash or bank accounts). The fee waiver request should be filed simultaneously with the court case. Additional filing fees: defendant's Answer/Appearance is $175; FM motions are $50.
Income threshold: 150% of federal poverty level with no more than $2,500 in liquid assets
Required form: CN 11208 (General Fee Waiver)
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