Divorce isn’t just an emotional decision—it’s a financial one, too. If you’re thinking about ending your marriage and you live in the Austin area, one of the biggest questions on your mind is probably: How much is this going to cost me?
Well, that depends. Every divorce is different, and the cost can range from a few hundred dollars to tens of thousands. The biggest factors? Whether you and your spouse can agree on the terms, whether you need a lawyer, and how much time you’ll spend negotiating things like child custody or splitting assets.
Let’s break down the actual costs so you can start planning—and avoid getting hit with unexpected expenses.
The Cost of Filing for Divorce in Austin
The first expense you’ll face is the court filing fee. In Travis County, filing for divorce typically costs between $300 and $350. If you need to have your spouse formally served with papers, that adds another $75 to $100.
Now, here’s something to consider: Are you and your spouse on decent enough terms to file an uncontested divorce? If so, you might be able to avoid a lot of extra costs. But if there’s conflict—especially over finances or kids—be prepared for the price to go up.
What happens if you can’t afford the filing fees? You may be able to have them waived by filing an Affidavit of Inability to Pay. If approved, the court could cover those costs for you.
Attorney Fees: The Biggest Expense
Let’s talk about legal fees because this is where things can get expensive. In Austin, most divorce attorneys charge anywhere from $250 to $500 per hour.
If you and your spouse are able to work things out quickly, a lawyer might only need to draft paperwork, and you could be looking at $1,500 to $3,500 total for an uncontested divorce. But if you’re fighting over assets, custody, or spousal support, the cost can skyrocket to $5,000 to $20,000—or more.
So, ask yourself:
- Can you and your spouse agree on most things, or will there be a battle?
- Is hiring a lawyer a necessity, or could mediation help?
- Do you know what you’re legally entitled to? (A lawyer can help make sure you don’t settle for less than you should.)
The more you and your spouse disagree, the more you’ll pay in legal fees. And if the case goes to trial? You’re looking at the most expensive scenario possible.
Mediation: A More Affordable Option
If you and your spouse aren’t seeing eye to eye but want to avoid the cost of a long court battle, mediation might be a good middle ground.
Mediators help you reach agreements on key issues like property division and custody without having to go before a judge. In Austin, mediation costs range from $200 to $500 per hour, and a full-day session can cost $1,500 to $3,000.
That might sound like a lot, but compared to a long, drawn-out court fight, it could actually save you thousands.
Other Costs You Might Not Expect
Beyond attorney fees and court costs, there are a few other expenses that can pop up, depending on your situation.
Child Custody Evaluations
If you and your spouse can’t agree on custody, the court might order an evaluation, where a professional assesses what’s in the best interest of the child. These evaluations can cost anywhere from $2,500 to $10,000.
Do you and your spouse see eye to eye on custody? If not, how far are you willing to go to fight for what you believe is best for your kids?
Dividing Assets & Property Valuations
If you own a home, business, or investments together, you might need a financial expert to figure out how to divide things fairly. Forensic accountants or business valuation experts can charge $3,000 to $10,000, depending on the complexity.
Do you know how much your shared assets are worth? Do you trust your spouse to be honest about finances, or do you need professional help?
Therapy or Counseling
Divorce is tough, even when it’s the right decision. Many people seek therapy to help process their emotions. Individual counseling typically costs $100 to $200 per session, while co-parenting counseling (which some courts require) can be $150 to $300 per session.
How are you handling the emotional side of this? Are you preparing for life after divorce, not just financially, but mentally and emotionally?
Post-Divorce Costs: What Comes Next?
Even after the divorce is finalized, the expenses don’t necessarily stop. Depending on your situation, you might have to budget for:
- Child support payments (based on Texas guidelines)
- Spousal support (alimony), if applicable
- Legal fees for modifying court orders in the future
It’s easy to focus on just getting through the divorce, but it’s just as important to plan for what comes next. Are you financially prepared for life after divorce?
How to Reduce the Cost of Divorce in Austin
Divorce doesn’t have to drain your bank account. If you’re worried about costs, here are some ways to keep expenses under control:
- Work together when possible – If you can agree on the basics, you’ll save thousands.
- Consider mediation – It’s faster and cheaper than court.
- Be strategic with your attorney’s time – Lawyers bill by the hour, so come prepared to meetings.
- Explore legal aid options – If finances are tight, there are resources that offer free or reduced-cost services.
- Understand your rights – Knowing what you’re entitled to can help prevent costly mistakes.
Final Thoughts
So, how much does a divorce cost in Austin? The short answer: It depends on how complicated your case is.
For some, it’s a few thousand dollars. For others, it’s tens of thousands. The more you and your spouse can agree,
the less you’ll spend.
If you’re considering divorce and want to understand your options, it’s always a good idea to talk to a family law attorney who can help you navigate the process and avoid costly mistakes.
At Sandoval Family Law, we’re here to guide you through every step, whether your divorce is simple or complex. If you’re ready to get answers, contact us today for a consultation.
