If you and your spouse agree on the terms of your divorce, you’re probably wondering how much it’s going to cost, and how to get it done without unnecessary stress. The good news? An uncontested divorce is one of the most affordable ways to move forward, especially when you understand your options.
According to CBS News, about 95% of divorce cases in the U.S. are settled out of court, which means most people don’t go through drawn-out legal battles. At Northwest Family Law, we guide clients through these smoother divorces with practical support and a holistic approach, so they can move forward confidently and affordably.
Key Takeaways
- Uncontested divorce is the cheapest option if both sides agree.
- Costs range from $300 to $2,000 depending on how you file.
- DIY is possible, but legal help is safer with kids or assets.
- You can cut costs with flat fees, online tools, or court resources.
What Is an Uncontested Divorce and Is It Right for You?
An uncontested divorce happens when both spouses agree on everything: splitting property, handling debt, child custody, support, and ending the marriage.
You qualify if:
- You both want the divorce
- You’ve worked out all terms (money, kids, assets)
- Neither of you plans to challenge the agreement
If there’s abuse, imbalance, or major disagreement, this isn’t the right path.
How Much Does an Uncontested Divorce Cost in Total?
Most uncontested divorces cost between $300 and $2,000, depending on how you file and where you live.
Here’s a quick breakdown:
- Court filing fees: $100–$450 (varies by state)
- Online divorce services: $150–$800 (documents + filing help)
- Mediation (if needed): $500–$1,500 total
- Other costs: Notary, parenting classes, process server, usually under $200
You don’t need to pay for all of these. For example, if you file everything yourself, you might only pay the filing fee.
Can You File for Divorce Without a Lawyer?
While it’s legally possible to file for divorce without a lawyer, doing so is typically only practical in very simple, uncontested cases where both parties fully agree on every issue.
Online platforms now offer low-cost filing options (usually between $150 and $500, excluding court fees), but these services often provide generic forms and limited support.
To file on your own, you’ll need to:
- Locate and correctly complete your state’s official divorce forms
- File everything with the court
- Serve your spouse properly (if required)
- Handle deadlines, disclosures, and court communications without legal guidance
Even in seemingly straightforward cases, legal missteps, like overlooking financial disclosures, misclassifying property, or missing deadlines, can lead to long-term consequences, delays, or future legal disputes.
That’s why having a divorce attorney is still the safest choice. An experienced lawyer makes sure that your rights are protected and that your agreement is enforceable. In many cases, having a legal advocate can save you far more in time, stress, and future complications than you might save upfront by going it alone.
Do You Need a Lawyer If You Have Kids?
Not always, if you and your spouse fully agree on custody, parenting time, and child support, you can still file without a lawyer.
That said, divorces involving children often become more complicated. A lawyer can review your agreement and fix issues before filing. If everything’s already agreed on, a flat-fee lawyer can keep costs low while keeping your case solid.
How Much Is the Divorce Filing Fee in Washington State?
In Washington, the court filing fee is usually $314, though it may vary by county. Nationwide, fees can be higher and also depend on location.
If the fee is too high for your budget, you can apply for a waiver by filing a financial statement with the court.
How Can You Lower the Cost of an Uncontested Divorce?
You can keep costs down by handling as much of the process yourself as possible, without risking mistakes.
Here are simple ways to save:
- Use an online divorce service for paperwork
- Split the filing fee with your spouse
- Agree on everything before filing, the more you settle upfront, the less you’ll spend
- Ask about flat-fee lawyers, some offer packages for uncontested cases
- Check for free court resources like self-help centers or legal aid
Looking for a Simple, Affordable Way to Move On?
If you and your spouse are ready to keep things peaceful and practical, an uncontested divorce can save you time, money, and stress. At Northwest Family Law, we offer more than just legal help, we provide thoughtful, personalized guidance to support your long-term well-being.
With flat-fee options to full legal support with a human touch, we’re here to help you move forward with clarity and confidence.Ready to take the next step? Schedule a consultation with us today.