Real numbers for California — filing fees, attorney rates, contested vs. uncontested costs, county breakdowns, and what you can do to reduce your total.
✓ Filing fee and waiting period verified against current state statutes · Updated August 2026
The paperwork and terminology differ from state to state, but a California divorce generally moves through the same five stages:
This is a general roadmap, not legal advice specific to your case — your county's self-help center or a licensed California family law attorney can walk you through the exact forms you'll need.
Enter your specific situation — children, assets, contested issues — and get a real cost breakdown in 60 seconds. Free, private, no login.
Calculate My California Divorce Cost →The cost of divorce in California ranges from roughly $3,900 for a simple uncontested case to $56,000 or more for a contested divorce that goes to trial. The single biggest factor is not the state — it is how much you and your spouse disagree.
California has a mandatory 6-month waiting period — the longest of any US state.
| Divorce Type | Low Estimate | Typical | High Estimate |
|---|---|---|---|
| Uncontested, no children | $435 | $1,410 | $6,500 |
| Uncontested with children | $3,900 | $6,500 | $9,750 |
| Contested, no trial | $19,250 | $35,000 | $56,000 |
| Contested, goes to trial | $56,000 | $66,500 | $50,000+ |
| Savings going uncontested | Up to $28,500 per spouse | ||
The court filing fee in California is paid when you submit your divorce petition to the court. This is a fixed, unavoidable cost regardless of whether your divorce is contested or uncontested.
Filing fee note: $435 statewide — highest in the US
| All CA counties | $435 statewide fee |
| Los Angeles | |
| San Diego | |
| Orange | |
| SF | |
| Alameda | |
| Sacramento | |
Divorce attorney hourly rates in California average $400 per hour.
A Los Angeles couple with two children and a shared home valued at $800,000, going through an uncontested divorce with an agreed custody schedule, would typically spend $435 in filing fees plus $4,000–$9,000 in attorney fees — total $4,500–$9,500. A contested custody dispute over the same situation could cost $40,000–$80,000+ per party.
How much does a divorce cost in California?
An uncontested divorce in California typically costs $6,500–$9,750 including the $435 filing fee. A contested divorce averages $35,000–$56,000 per spouse depending on attorney hours and complexity.
How long does a divorce take in California?
The minimum is 6 months from when your spouse is served — California's mandatory waiting period. Uncontested divorces often finalize at the 6-month mark. Contested cases can take 1–3 years.
Is California a 50/50 divorce state?
Yes. California is a community property state. All assets and debts acquired during the marriage are split equally between both spouses, with limited exceptions for gifts and inheritance.
Can I get a divorce in California without a lawyer?
Yes, for simple uncontested cases. California courts have Self-Help Centers at every courthouse. You can also use online divorce services or a Legal Document Assistant for $300–$800.
What is the minimum cost to get divorced in California?
The minimum is the $435 filing fee. If your divorce is uncontested and you prepare your own forms correctly, total costs can be $500–$700. Most people pay more for at least some professional assistance.
How does spousal support work in California?
California courts consider length of marriage, each spouse's income and earning capacity, and standard of living during marriage. Long marriages (10+ years) can result in indefinite spousal support.
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Open California Calculator →Filing fees based on California court records as of July 2026. This is for informational purposes only and is not legal advice.