Rhode Island Divorce Cost

How much does divorce cost in Rhode Island? Detailed breakdown of filing fees, attorney costs, mediation, and hidden expenses — plus how to save up to 90%. Updated for 2026.

Rhode Island Divorce Cost Comparison

MethodCost Range
Divorce.ai$299 + $160 filing fee
DIY (Pro Se)$160 filing fee only
Mediation$3,000-$8,000(~$200/session)
Uncontested + Attorney$2,500-$5,000
Contested + Attorney$10,000-$30,000+

Rhode Island Divorce Fee Breakdown

0
Court Filing Fee$160
Process Server$50
Certified Copy$20
Minimum Total (DIY)$230

County Fee Variations

Providence$160
Kent$160
Washington$160
Newport$160
Bristol$160

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Attorney Costs in Rhode Island

Divorce attorneys in Rhode Island typically charge between $200 and $400 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

Rhode Island offers filing fee waivers for individuals who cannot afford to pay.

Rhode Island allows fee waivers through the Application to Proceed In Forma Pauperis. To qualify, the filer must demonstrate income at or below 150% of the federal poverty level, or show that they receive government assistance such as SNAP, SSI, or public assistance. If the court grants the motion, court costs and fees are waived throughout the divorce proceeding.

Income threshold: 150% of Federal Poverty Guidelines or receiving government assistance (SNAP, SSI, public assistance)

Required form: Application to Proceed In Forma Pauperis

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Frequently Asked Questions

How much does a divorce cost in Rhode Island?
An uncontested divorce in Rhode Island typically costs $2,500-$5,000, while a contested divorce ranges from $10,000-$30,000. The court filing fee alone is $160.
How much does a divorce lawyer cost in Rhode Island?
Divorce attorneys in Rhode Island typically charge $200-$400 per hour. A full representation in an uncontested case might cost $1,500-$5,000, while contested cases can exceed $15,000.
Can I get a fee waiver for divorce in Rhode Island?
Yes, Rhode Island offers fee waivers for those who cannot afford the filing fee. Rhode Island allows fee waivers through the Application to Proceed In Forma Pauperis. To qualify, the filer must demonstrate income at or below 150% of the federal poverty level, or show that they receive government assistance such as SNAP, SSI, or public assistance. If the court grants the motion, court costs and fees are waived throughout the divorce proceeding. You will need to complete form Application to Proceed In Forma Pauperis.
What is the cheapest way to get divorced in Rhode Island?
The cheapest option is an uncontested divorce using an online service like Divorce.ai (starting at $299) plus the $160 filing fee. This avoids expensive attorney fees while ensuring your forms are prepared correctly.

Related Rhode Island Guides

File your Rhode Island divorce for less

Complete divorce document preparation from $299. Filing fee of $160 paid directly to the court.