California Divorce Costs: 2026 Breakdown & Fee Guide
Detailed breakdown of divorce costs in California including filing fees, attorney costs, and ways to reduce expenses.
California Divorce Cost Breakdown
Divorce costs in California vary significantly based on whether your case is contested and whether you hire an attorney. Here's what you need to know:
California Filing Fees by County
Filing fees in California vary by county. Here are the fees for major counties:
| County | Filing Fee |
|---|---|
| Los Angeles County | $435 |
| San Diego County | $435 |
| Orange County | $435 |
| Riverside County | $435 |
| San Bernardino County | $435 |
| Santa Clara County | $450 |
| Alameda County | $435 |
| Sacramento County | $435 |
Attorney Fees in California
Hourly Rates
$250 - $600 per hour
Average: $400/hour
Flat Fee (Uncontested)
$2,500 - $5,000
For simple, agreed divorces
Average Retainer
$5,000
Upfront deposit required
Cost Scenarios for California
DIY Uncontested (No Children, Limited Assets)
Both parties agree, handle all paperwork themselves, minimal assets.
- Filing fee: $435-450
- Service of process: $50-100
- Copying, notary, misc: $50-100
DIY Uncontested (With Children)
Agreement on custody and support, but more paperwork required.
- Filing fee: $435-450
- Service of process: $50-100
- Child support worksheet preparation: $0
- Copying and documentation: $65-250
Online Divorce Service
Use online platform to prepare forms, then file yourself.
- Online service fee: $200-600
- Filing fee: $435-450
- Service of process: $65-150
Attorney-Assisted Uncontested
Attorney handles all paperwork for agreed terms.
- Attorney flat fee: $2,500-5,000
- Filing fee: $435-450
- Court costs: $500-1,500
Mediated Divorce
Mediator helps negotiate, attorneys review agreement.
- Mediator fees: $3,000-8,000 (8-20 hours at $250-400/hr)
- Filing fee: $435-450
- Attorney review: $1,000-2,500
- Document preparation: $500-1,000
Contested Divorce (Moderate Complexity)
Some disputed issues, limited discovery, settles before trial.
- Attorney fees: $12,000-25,000 (30-60 hours)
- Filing and court costs: $1,000-2,000
- Discovery: $1,000-2,500
- Appraisals/experts: $1,000-2,500
High-Conflict Contested Divorce
Complex assets, custody disputes, full trial.
- Attorney fees: $25,000-75,000 (60-200+ hours)
- Court costs: $2,000-5,000
- Discovery and depositions: $3,000-8,000
- Expert witnesses: $5,000-15,000
- Trial costs: $5,000-10,000
Additional Costs to Consider
| Item | Cost |
|---|---|
| QDRO for retirement accounts | $500 - $2,500 |
| Property appraisal | $400 - $800 |
| Business valuation | $5,000 - $25,000 |
| Forensic accountant | $300 - $500 per hour |
| Child custody evaluator | $3,000 - $10,000 |
| Parenting plan coordinator | $150 - $300 per hour |
| Real estate appraisal | $450 - $650 |
10 Ways to Reduce Divorce Costs in California
Use California court self-help centers (free)
File for fee waiver if income is below 125% of poverty level
Consider mediation for disputed issues
Complete financial disclosures yourself
Use limited scope representation for specific tasks
Organize documents before attorney meetings
Settle out of court to avoid trial costs
Use online legal document services ($300-700)
Frequently Asked Questions About California Divorce Costs
How much does it cost to file for divorce in California?
The filing fee in California is $435 in most counties, with some (like Santa Clara) charging $450. This covers only the initial petition filing.
Can I get a fee waiver in California?
Yes, California offers fee waivers for those whose household income is below 125% of the federal poverty level or who receive public benefits. File FW-001 Application for Waiver of Court Fees.
Why are California divorces more expensive than other states?
California has higher attorney rates ($250-600/hr), a 6-month waiting period, mandatory financial disclosures, and complex community property laws. The average contested divorce costs $26,000 in California.
How much does divorce mediation cost in California?
California divorce mediators charge $250-400 per hour. Most cases require 8-20 hours of mediation, resulting in total costs of $3,000-8,000 plus filing fees.
Do I need a QDRO in California and how much does it cost?
Yes, if you're dividing retirement accounts (401k, pension, IRA), you need a Qualified Domestic Relations Order. QDRO preparation costs $500-2,500 depending on complexity.
Ready to Start Your Divorce?
Whether you choose DIY or hire an attorney, understanding costs helps you budget effectively.