How Much Does a Divorce Cost in California? (2026)

A divorce in California has two separate price tags: what you pay to prepare the documents, and what the court charges to file them. Here's the real 2026 breakdown so nothing catches you by surprise.

Document preparation

With SimplyDivorceOnline, preparing your complete uncontested divorce is one flat fee of $149, no hourly billing, no subscription. Hiring a California attorney instead is where the well-known five-figure averages come from: a contested divorce with lawyers commonly runs $10,000–$30,000+.

California court filing fee

Separate from preparation, California's Superior Court charges a filing fee to open your case: $435 per spouse (2026); couples who agree can file one joint petition, Form FL-700, for a single $435 fee. It's paid directly to the court, not to us. Most California courts waive it for filers who qualify based on income or public benefits, we show you how to request that.

What actually drives the cost up

The single biggest cost factor is conflict. Every issue you and your spouse can't settle yourselves, property, support, custody, is one a lawyer or judge has to resolve, and that's what turns a few hundred dollars into tens of thousands. Agreeing between yourselves is how you keep an California divorce cheap.

The bottom line

For an amicable, uncontested California divorce, your realistic all-in cost is the flat $149 document fee plus your court's filing fee, often under $600 total, versus a five-figure lawyer-driven divorce.

This guide is general information, not legal advice, and rules change, always confirm current requirements with your county court or a licensed attorney. When you start with us, your forms and checklist are tailored to your state and county automatically.

Frequently asked questions

How much does a divorce cost in California in 2026?

Preparing an uncontested divorce in California with SimplyDivorceOnline is a flat $149, plus your county court's filing fee ($435 per spouse (2026); couples who agree can file one joint petition, Form FL-700, for a single $435 fee). That's a fraction of hiring an attorney, which commonly runs $10,000+ for a contested case.

How long does a divorce take in California?

Most people finish the paperwork in a weekend. After you file, California generally requires a six-month waiting period after your spouse is served, usually the biggest factor in your overall timeline.

Do I need a lawyer to get divorced in California?

No. If you and your spouse agree on the terms, you can file an uncontested divorce in California yourself using the correct court forms. A lawyer is mainly worth it if your case is contested or involves complex assets, a business, or a custody dispute.

Can I get divorced in California if my spouse won't cooperate?

Yes. California, like every state, allows a no-fault divorce, so your spouse cannot block it. If they don't respond after being properly served, the court can grant a default divorce.

Where do I file for divorce in California?

You file with the Superior Court in the county where you (or your spouse) live, using the Petition, Form FL-100 (or joint Form FL-700). Your county clerk processes the case; California's official court website has current forms and fees.