If you are facing a divorce in Virginia, one of the first questions you probably have is how much it will cost. The answer depends almost entirely on whether you hire an attorney and whether your divorce is contested. Virginia has one of the lowest court filing fees in the United States at approximately $86, making it one of the most affordable states for a DIY divorce.
Virginia divorce costs at a glance
| Type of divorce | Estimated cost |
|---|---|
| Uncontested DIY (no lawyer) | $86–$250 |
| Uncontested with attorney | $1,500–$5,000 |
| Contested with attorney | $12,000–$30,000+ |
| Online divorce service | $150–$500 |
Virginia court filing fees
The base filing fee for a divorce complaint in Virginia is approximately $86 — one of the lowest in the United States. However, additional fees apply depending on your county and situation:
- Filing fee for Complaint for Divorce: ~$86
- Service of process by sheriff: ~$12–$25
- Certified copy of final decree: ~$2 per page
- If children are involved: additional filing fees may apply
Fees vary slightly by county. Always confirm the exact amount with your circuit court clerk before filing.
What makes Virginia divorce costs go up?
The main cost driver in a Virginia divorce is whether you hire an attorney and whether your divorce becomes contested. Here is what drives costs higher:
- Disputes over child custody or visitation
- Disagreements about property division
- Spousal support negotiations
- Business ownership or complex retirement accounts
- A spouse who refuses to cooperate or sign documents
If you and your spouse agree on all major issues, you can keep costs under $250 total by filing an uncontested divorce in Virginia without an attorney.
Virginia separation requirement and its impact on cost
Virginia requires spouses to live separately before a divorce can be granted. This separation requirement affects the total time and cost of your divorce:
- Without minor children: 6 months of separation with a signed separation agreement
- With minor children: 12 months of separation
During the separation period, maintaining two separate households adds to the overall financial impact of divorce — even before court costs begin.
Can you get a divorce in Virginia without a lawyer?
Yes. Virginia allows self-represented (pro se) filers. If your divorce is uncontested and you have a signed Property Settlement Agreement, you can complete the entire process for approximately $86–$250 in court fees with no attorney costs. For the complete step-by-step process, see our guide:
→ How to File for Divorce in Virginia Without a Lawyer
Free and low-cost divorce options in Virginia
- Virginia Courts Self-Help Center at selfhelp.vacourts.gov — free forms and instructions
- Virginia Legal Aid — free legal assistance for qualifying low-income residents
- Law school clinics — many Virginia law schools offer free legal consultations
- Online divorce services ($150–$500) — prepare your forms for you but do not provide legal advice
How long does a divorce take in Virginia?
For an uncontested divorce in Virginia with no minor children and a signed agreement, the process takes approximately 6–8 months total — including the 6-month separation period. With minor children, total time is typically 14–18 months including the 12-month separation. Contested divorces can take 2–3 years.
→ Read the full Virginia divorce guide
Frequently asked questions — Virginia divorce cost
What is the cheapest way to get divorced in Virginia?
The cheapest way to get divorced in Virginia is to file an uncontested, agreed divorce yourself using the free forms from the Virginia Courts Self-Help Center. Your only cost is the court filing fee of approximately $86 plus any copying or notary fees — typically under $150 total.
How much does a lawyer cost for divorce in Virginia?
Attorneys in Virginia typically charge $200–$400 per hour for divorce cases. For an uncontested divorce, many attorneys offer flat-fee packages ranging from $1,500 to $3,500. For a contested divorce, total attorney fees typically range from $12,000 to $30,000 or more depending on complexity.
Can I get a fee waiver for the Virginia divorce filing fee?
Yes. If you cannot afford the filing fee, you can file a Petition for Proceeding in Civil Case Without Payment of Fees or Costs with the court. If approved based on your income, the filing fee is waived.
Does Virginia require a separation period before divorce?
Yes. Virginia requires a separation period before a divorce can be granted — 6 months if there are no minor children and a signed agreement, or 12 months if there are minor children. This is one of the longer separation requirements in the United States.
How much does an online divorce service cost in Virginia?
Online divorce services that prepare your paperwork for you typically cost $150–$500 in Virginia. These services are not law firms and do not provide legal advice — they simply fill out the forms based on information you provide. You still pay the court filing fee separately.
More Virginia divorce resources
- How to File for Divorce in Virginia Without a Lawyer
- How to File for Divorce in North Carolina Without a Lawyer
- How to File for Divorce in Maryland Without a Lawyer
- How Much Does a Divorce Cost in Texas?
- How Much Does a Divorce Cost in Colorado?
Legal disclaimer
The information on this page is for general educational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Divorce costs in Virginia vary by county and individual circumstances. If your divorce involves significant assets, children, or disputes, consider consulting a licensed attorney in Virginia.