Calculator

How much does divorce cost in California?

Typical uncontested divorces in California cost around $4,000. Contested cases can climb toward $100,000 depending on custody, assets, and trial preparation.

Estimated total cost in California

$1,935 – $8,435

Median estimate: $4,435

Breakdown

Court filing fee: $435
Attorney fees: $1,500 – $8,000

Assumptions

Uncontested or amicable divorce baseline applied.
Full attorney representation uses typical statewide cost ranges.
Court filing fee for California: $435.

Book a family law attorney in California

How we estimate divorce costs

This calculator starts with published filing fees and typical attorney cost ranges for California, then adjusts for case complexity such as custody disputes, business ownership, real estate, and asset tier. It is an educational estimate — not legal advice or a quote from any specific attorney.

California divorce basics

Court filing fee: $435
Court: Superior Court of California
Residency requirement: 6 months
Minimum waiting period: 183 days
No-fault divorce: Pure no-fault state
Typical attorney hourly rate: $300 – $700 / hr

California divorce cost FAQ

How much does an uncontested divorce cost in California?

Most uncontested divorces in California fall between $1,500 and $8,000, with a typical midpoint around $4,000.

How much does a contested divorce cost in California?

Contested divorces in California often range from $15,000 to $100,000, depending on custody, assets, and trial preparation.

What is the filing fee for divorce in California?

The current filing fee to start a divorce in California is $435 through the Superior Court of California.

How long does divorce take in California?

California generally requires at least 183 days before a divorce can be finalized, plus additional court processing time.

Can we file a no-fault divorce in California?

California is a pure no-fault state, meaning divorces are typically filed on no-fault grounds.

Can spouses file jointly in California?

Many couples in California can pursue an amicable or uncontested process when both spouses agree on terms, but the exact joint-filing options depend on local court rules.

Sources

Data as of 2026-07-20.

Talk to a family law attorney in California

Compare verified family law attorneys, see consultation pricing, and book online through Lawckin.