We combine publicly available data from state courts, bar associations, and legal aid organizations to provide realistic divorce cost estimates. Our goal is to give you a reliable starting point — not a guarantee — so you can plan your finances before speaking with an attorney. Every estimate is calculated in your browser using the latest data we've compiled for all 50 states plus the District of Columbia.

Filing fees are sourced directly from each state's court system and verified against official judicial branch websites. We track fees for all 50 states plus DC, ranging from as low as $80 (North Dakota) to $435 (California). Filing fees are updated annually as states adjust their fee schedules. Some states offer fee waivers for low-income filers — we note this where applicable.

Attorney hourly rates are based on averages from state bar association surveys, legal marketplace data, and published industry reports. We factor in whether a divorce is contested or uncontested, as this dramatically affects the number of billable hours required. Uncontested divorces may only need 5–15 attorney hours, while contested cases can require 30–100+ hours. We also apply complexity multipliers for cases involving children, significant assets, or business ownership.

Our calculator adjusts estimates based on several factors that affect real-world costs. Children add custody evaluation and parenting plan expenses. Property ownership adds appraisal costs. High-asset cases (over $500K in marital assets) increase attorney hours due to discovery and valuation complexity. Mediation, when chosen, adds mediator fees but typically reduces overall costs by avoiding litigation. Each multiplier is calibrated to reflect typical cost impacts reported in legal industry research.

We're transparent about what our estimates can't account for. Individual attorney pricing varies widely — even within the same city. County-level fee variations exist in some states. Case complexity (hidden assets, domestic violence, international custody) can dramatically increase costs beyond our ranges. Our estimates are starting points, not guarantees. We strongly recommend consulting with a local family law attorney for accurate cost projections specific to your situation.

We review and update our dataset on a rolling basis, with a full refresh at least once per year. Filing fees are verified against state court websites each January. Attorney rate data is updated when new bar association surveys are published (typically annually). Our most recent comprehensive data update was completed in January 2025. If you notice an outdated fee or rate, please let us know.