This figure is an estimate and has not yet been checked against the current court fee schedule. Confirm with California Courts before you file.
California divorce cost summary
Here's the at-a-glance breakdown for California. Run the calculator above for an estimate matched to your exact situation.
| Scenario | Estimated total | Typical timeline |
|---|---|---|
| DIY uncontested (no lawyer) | $435 – $935 | Waiting period + processing |
| Uncontested with attorney | $1,935 – $4,435 | 2–6 months |
| Mediation (shared between spouses) | $1,000 – $4,000 | 1–4 months |
| Contested (average) | $7,000 – $23,000 | 9–18 months |
| Court filing fee | $435 | — |
Divorce filing fees in California
The fee to file a divorce petition with the California Courts (courts.ca.gov) is approximately $435. If your spouse files a formal response, a first-appearance fee may apply on their side as well, so a fully contested case can start at roughly $870 in court fees before anything else.
Some counties add small local surcharges, so the exact figure can vary by a few dollars depending on where you file. If you cannot afford the fee, California offers a fee waiver based on income — if granted, you pay nothing to file.
How long does divorce take in California?
California imposes a waiting period of 6 months. This is the legal minimum before a divorce can be finalised — it applies even when both spouses agree on everything from day one.
- Uncontested divorce: typically the waiting period plus court processing time
- Contested divorce: commonly 9–18 months, longer if custody or significant property is disputed
- Mediation: can shorten a contested case and reduce overall cost
California residency requirements
To file for divorce in California, the residency requirement is 6 months state / 3 months county. If you don't yet qualify, you may be able to file for legal separation first and convert to divorce once you meet the requirement.
Uncontested divorce cost in California
If you and your spouse agree on property, support and (if applicable) custody, costs can be limited to the $435 filing fee plus optional help:
- Pure DIY: $435–$935 using the court's self-help forms
- Online document service: roughly $935–$1,935 total
- Attorney-reviewed uncontested case: roughly $1,935 – $4,435 total
Contested divorce cost in California
Family-law rates in California commonly run $300–$700/hr. A contested divorce typically costs $9,000 – $25,000 in attorney fees, and cases with custody evaluations, business valuations or forensic accounting can run higher. Mediation ($1,000–$4,000) is often the most effective way to bring a contested case back toward uncontested pricing.
Can I file for divorce without a lawyer in California?
Yes. California courts publish the required forms, and uncontested cases are routinely completed without attorneys. The simpler your situation — no minor children, limited shared property, full agreement — the more likely a DIY filing is appropriate. Use the calculator above to check your estimated DIY eligibility.
California divorce costs by county
Filing fees and local procedures can differ between counties. Popular California county guides:
- Los Angeles County divorce cost — filed at the Superior Court of Los Angeles County
- San Diego County divorce cost — filed at the Superior Court of San Diego County
- Orange County divorce cost — filed at the Superior Court of Orange County
California divorce FAQ
How much does a divorce cost in California?
What is the divorce filing fee in California?
How long does a divorce take in California?
How much does an uncontested divorce cost in California?
How much does a contested divorce cost in California?
How much does a divorce lawyer cost in California?
Can I get divorced without a lawyer in California?
What is the residency requirement for divorce in California?
Is there a waiting period for divorce in California?
How can I reduce my divorce costs in California?
California divorce cost guides
Sources
- California Courts ↗ — fee schedule & divorce procedures
- California statutes on waiting period and residency ↗
- State bar association & published legal-fee surveys — attorney cost ranges (estimates, not quotes)
- How we compile and verify these figures
Content last updated: 20 Jun 2026 · Filing fee not yet independently verified — treat as an estimate and confirm with the court before filing.