North Carolina Divorce Costs: 2026 Breakdown & Fee Guide
Detailed breakdown of divorce costs in North Carolina including filing fees, attorney costs, and ways to reduce expenses.
North Carolina Divorce Cost Breakdown
Divorce costs in North Carolina vary significantly based on whether your case is contested and whether you hire an attorney. Here's what you need to know:
North Carolina Filing Fees by County
Filing fees in North Carolina vary by county. Here are the fees for major counties:
| County | Filing Fee |
|---|---|
| Mecklenburg County (Charlotte) | $225 |
| Wake County (Raleigh) | $225 |
| Guilford County | $225 |
Attorney Fees in North Carolina
Hourly Rates
$175 - $425 per hour
Average: $275/hour
Flat Fee (Uncontested)
$1,200 - $3,000
For simple, agreed divorces
Average Retainer
$3,500
Upfront deposit required
Cost Scenarios for North Carolina
DIY Divorce (After 1-Year Separation)
Simple divorce after separation.
- Filing fee: $225
- Service fee: $30-75
- Copying: $20-50
Attorney-Assisted
Attorney handles filing.
- Attorney fees: $1,200-3,000
- Filing fee: $225
- Court costs: $300-1,000
Contested with Property/Custody
Separate equitable distribution action.
- Attorney fees: $8,000-25,000
- Court costs: $1,500-3,500
- Experts: $1,000-2,500
10 Ways to Reduce Divorce Costs in North Carolina
Handle separation agreement before divorce
DIY the actual divorce filing (simple)
Resolve property/custody in mediation
Use separate equitable distribution action only if needed
Frequently Asked Questions About North Carolina Divorce Costs
How much does divorce cost in North Carolina?
The divorce filing fee is $225 statewide. However, property division and custody require separate legal actions if contested, which can add significant costs.
Ready to Start Your Divorce?
Whether you choose DIY or hire an attorney, understanding costs helps you budget effectively.