“How much does a divorce cost in California?” depends mostly on one thing: whether you hire an attorney or prepare the documents yourself. Here’s a realistic breakdown.
The court filing fee
The first-appearance filing fee is roughly $435–$450 in most counties — paid to the court, separate from any preparation cost. If you can’t afford it, a fee waiver (FW-001) may eliminate it.
Attorney vs. document preparation
A contested divorce with attorneys can run many thousands of dollars. An uncontested divorce handled through a document preparation service is dramatically less — you pay for accurate paperwork, not hourly legal fees.
Curbside Legal pricing
Uncontested divorce from $995 (no children) or $1,250 (with children), or an instant-download DIY divorce packet from $95 — typically 40–70% below attorney rates. Payment plans available.
How Curbside Legal helps
We prepare your entire uncontested divorce, court-ready. See pricing or read the divorce guide.
Curbside Legal is a legal document preparation service, not a law firm, and does not provide legal advice. Court filing fees are set by the court and paid separately.