Minnesota Divorce Cost Breakdown

Divorce costs in Minnesota vary significantly based on whether your case is contested and whether you hire an attorney. Here's what you need to know:

Average Uncontested
$13,500
Average Contested
$23,000

Minnesota Filing Fees by County

Filing fees in Minnesota vary by county. Here are the fees for major counties:

County Filing Fee
Hennepin County (Minneapolis) $400
Ramsey County (St. Paul) $400
Dakota County $400

Attorney Fees in Minnesota

Hourly Rates

$225 - $500 per hour

Average: $350/hour

Flat Fee (Uncontested)

$2,000 - $4,500

For simple, agreed divorces

Average Retainer

$4,500

Upfront deposit required

Cost Scenarios for Minnesota

DIY Summary Dissolution

$450 - $600

Simplified process.

Cost Breakdown:
  • Filing fee: $400
  • Service fee: $50-100
  • Copying: $25-50

Contested Divorce

$13,000 - $35,000

Litigated.

Cost Breakdown:
  • Attorney fees: $11,000-30,000
  • Court costs: $1,500-3,500
  • Experts: $1,000-2,500

10 Ways to Reduce Divorce Costs in Minnesota

1

Use summary dissolution if eligible

2

DIY with court forms

3

Mediate disputes

Frequently Asked Questions About Minnesota Divorce Costs

How much does divorce cost in Minnesota?

Filing fee is $400 statewide. DIY costs total $450-600 for summary dissolution in Minnesota.

Ready to Start Your Divorce?

Whether you choose DIY or hire an attorney, understanding costs helps you budget effectively.