Divorce costs in Texas can vary widely depending on the type of divorce and whether both spouses agree on the terms.
If the divorce is uncontested, the total cost can be relatively low.
If the divorce is contested, costs can increase significantly due to attorney fees, court appearances, and negotiations.
In this guide, you’ll learn:
- The average divorce filing fees in Texas
- The total cost of an uncontested vs. a contested divorce
- Additional expenses that may appear during the process
- Ways to reduce the cost of divorce in Texas
Texas Divorce Filing Fee
The first mandatory cost when filing for divorce in Texas is the court filing fee.
Most Texas counties charge between:
$250 – $350
This fee is paid when submitting the Original Petition for Divorce to the district court.
The exact cost depends on the county where the divorce is filed.
Examples:
| County | Filing Fee |
|---|---|
| Harris County | ~$320 |
| Dallas County | ~$318 |
| Travis County | ~$300 |
| Bexar County | ~$315 |
The filing fee is usually paid by the spouse who initiates the divorce (the petitioner).
In some cases, people who cannot afford the filing fee may request a fee waiver by submitting a Statement of Inability to Afford Payment of Court Costs.
Average Cost of Divorce in Texas
The total cost of a divorce depends mostly on whether the divorce is contested or uncontested.
Uncontested Divorce
When both spouses agree on all major issues (property division, custody, support), the cost can be relatively low.
Typical costs:
| Expense | Average Cost |
|---|---|
| Filing fee | $250 – $350 |
| Document preparation | $100 – $500 |
| Notary and copies | $20 – $50 |
Estimated total:
$300 – $900
Many couples complete an uncontested divorce without hiring a lawyer.
Contested Divorce
If spouses disagree on important issues, the divorce becomes contested and costs rise quickly.
Typical costs:
| Expense | Average Cost |
|---|---|
| Attorney fees | $8,000 – $15,000 |
| Court costs | $300 – $600 |
| Expert witnesses | $1,000 – $5,000 |
Estimated total:
$8,000 – $20,000+
Contested divorces often involve multiple hearings, negotiations, and legal filings.
Additional Divorce Costs in Texas
Besides filing fees and attorney fees, there may be other expenses.
Common additional costs include:
- Mediation fees
- Parenting classes (in cases involving children)
- Process server fees
- Property valuation or financial experts
- Court document copies
These costs vary depending on the complexity of the case.
Can You Get a Low-Cost Divorce in Texas?
Yes. Many couples reduce divorce costs by choosing an uncontested divorce and preparing documents themselves.
Ways to reduce costs include:
- Filing without an attorney
- Using online divorce document services
- Agreeing on property division before filing
- Completing mediation early
Uncontested divorces are generally the fastest and most affordable option.
Texas Divorce Waiting Period
Texas requires a mandatory 60-day waiting period after filing before a divorce can be finalized.
This means that even simple divorces cannot be completed immediately.
Learn more in our guide:
👉 How to File for Divorce in Texas
Frequently Asked Questions About Divorce Cost in Texas
How much does it cost to file for divorce in Texas?
The filing fee typically ranges between $250 and $350, depending on the county.
What is the cheapest way to get a divorce in Texas?
The cheapest option is usually an uncontested divorce without attorneys, which may cost between $300 and $900.
Who pays the divorce filing fee in Texas?
Usually, the spouse who files the divorce petition first pays the filing fee.
However, the court may divide expenses between both spouses in the final settlement.
Final Thoughts
Divorce costs in Texas vary significantly depending on the circumstances of the case.
For couples who agree on the main terms, an uncontested divorce can be relatively affordable.
However, contested divorces involving attorneys and court hearings can become very expensive.
Understanding the typical fees and process can help you plan ahead and avoid unnecessary expenses.