What Is the Average Cost of a Divorce in California?

When two people decide that divorce is the best option for their relationship, they will need to formally begin the process of legally ending their marriage. To do this, they must file for divorce in California and go through the legal process. Many people fear that the cost of divorce will be high. Some people may even decide to stay stuck in an unhappy marriage rather than face the potential cost of divorce. This can be a very dangerous decision, as staying in an unhappy marriage can lead to even more problems down the road.

At the Law Offices of Michelanne Hrubic, we understand that divorce costs are a major concern for many people. We also know that the cost of divorce can vary greatly depending on each individual case. With that being said, we ensure that the quality of our services is never compromised and our clients always receive the best representation. We have extensive experience handling divorce cases under family law in California and will work diligently to help you reach a fair and reasonable settlement.

What Expenses Are Associated With Filing for Divorce in California?

The first expense that is generally associated with filing for divorce in California is the filing fee. The current filing fee in California is $435, and this must be paid when the divorce paperwork is filed with the court.

Another expense often associated with divorce is the cost of an attorney. Many people choose to hire an attorney to help them navigate the divorce process. While some people can represent themselves in court, it is generally advisable to have an attorney present, as the divorce process can be complex.

The cost of hiring an attorney can vary depending on the lawyer’s experience and location. In general, attorneys in larger cities tend to charge more than those in smaller towns. The national average for divorce from start to finish is $15,000, while you can expect to pay up to $17,000 in California.

Factors That Influence Total Divorce Cost

Many factors influence the total cost of a divorce. Some of these factors include:

• The length of the marriage: The longer a couple is married, the more assets they are likely to have accumulated. This can lead to a more complicated divorce case, as the court must divide the assets fairly between the two parties.
• The number of children: Custody and visitation will need to be determined if a couple has children. This can often be a contentious issue between splitting parents, as both have their own ideas of what the best arrangement for the children would be.
• The presence of a prenuptial agreement: If a couple has a prenuptial agreement in place, it can often make the divorce process simpler and quicker. This is because the prenuptial agreement will already outline how the couple’s assets should be divided in the event of a divorce.
• The level of conflict: If a couple can communicate and cooperate with each other, the divorce process will generally be less expensive than if there is a lot of conflict between the two parties. Contested divorces take longer to resolve, which increases the amount of time, resources, and money required to finalize the divorce.

If you are ready to move forward with your divorce, contact the Law Offices of Michelanne Hrubic today to schedule a consultation with one of our divorce attorneys. We can help you understand the California divorce process and ensure that it is as smooth and stress-free as possible. We are proud of how we have helped our clients through this difficult time in their lives, and we are here to help you, too.