This figure is an estimate and has not yet been checked against the current court fee schedule. Confirm with Texas Judicial Branch before you file.
Texas divorce cost summary
Here's the at-a-glance breakdown for Texas. Run the calculator above for an estimate matched to your exact situation.
| Scenario | Estimated total | Typical timeline |
|---|---|---|
| DIY uncontested (no lawyer) | $350 – $850 | Waiting period + processing |
| Uncontested with attorney | $1,350 – $3,350 | 2–6 months |
| Mediation (shared between spouses) | $1,000 – $4,000 | 1–4 months |
| Contested (average) | $5,000 – $18,000 | 9–18 months |
| Court filing fee | $350 | — |
Divorce filing fees in Texas
The fee to file a divorce petition with the Texas Judicial Branch (txcourts.gov) is approximately $350. 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 $700 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, Texas offers a fee waiver based on income — if granted, you pay nothing to file.
How long does divorce take in Texas?
Texas imposes a waiting period of 60 days. 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
Texas residency requirements
To file for divorce in Texas, the residency requirement is 6 months state + 90 days 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 Texas
If you and your spouse agree on property, support and (if applicable) custody, costs can be limited to the $350 filing fee plus optional help:
- Pure DIY: $350–$850 using the court's self-help forms
- Online document service: roughly $850–$1,850 total
- Attorney-reviewed uncontested case: roughly $1,350 – $3,350 total
Contested divorce cost in Texas
Family-law rates in Texas commonly run $225–$500/hr. A contested divorce typically costs $6,000 – $18,000 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 Texas?
Yes. Texas 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.
Texas divorce costs by county
Filing fees and local procedures can differ between counties. Popular Texas county guides:
- Harris County divorce cost — filed at the Harris County District Clerk
- Dallas County divorce cost — filed at the Dallas County District Clerk
- Travis County divorce cost — filed at the Travis County District Clerk
Texas divorce FAQ
How much does a divorce cost in Texas?
What is the divorce filing fee in Texas?
How long does a divorce take in Texas?
How much does an uncontested divorce cost in Texas?
How much does a contested divorce cost in Texas?
How much does a divorce lawyer cost in Texas?
Can I get divorced without a lawyer in Texas?
What is the residency requirement for divorce in Texas?
Is there a waiting period for divorce in Texas?
How can I reduce my divorce costs in Texas?
Texas divorce cost guides
Sources
- Texas Judicial Branch ↗ — fee schedule & divorce procedures
- Texas 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.