The average uncontested divorce cost in Los Angeles in 2025–2026 ranges from $450 to $3,000, depending on whether you file on your own, use online divorce services, or hire an attorney. Filing fees are typically around $435 per spouse, but additional costs apply for document preparation, mediation, and notary services. Couples with mutual agreement on property division and custody can finalize their divorce faster and at a much lower cost compared to contested cases. Choosing the right approach—DIY, mediation, or lawyer-assisted—determines the total expense and timeline of your divorce process.
Uncontested divorce in Los Angeles costs $450–$3,000 in 2025–2026. Learn about filing fees, lawyer costs, mediation rates, timelines, and neighborhood-wise price differences.
Average Uncontested Divorce Cost in Los Angeles [2025–2026]
The cost of an uncontested divorce in Los Angeles varies based on complexity, use of lawyers, and whether children or property are involved. On average, couples spend less than one-third of what a contested divorce costs.
• Do-it-yourself (DIY) divorce: $450–$800 including filing and notarization fees.
• Online divorce services: $200–$600 for digital document preparation and filing guidance.
• Mediation-based divorce: $1,500–$2,800 depending on mediator experience and number of sessions.
• Attorney-assisted uncontested divorce: $2,000–$3,000 for consultation, filing, and settlement drafting.
• Court filing fee: $435 per spouse, required to initiate or respond to the case.
Types of Uncontested Divorce Options in Los Angeles [2025–2026]
Different uncontested divorce options in Los Angeles suit various budgets and comfort levels. Each offers distinct advantages in terms of cost, control, and timeline.
• DIY Divorce (Self-Representation): The cheapest route—couples handle forms and filing themselves, costing only court fees and small document fees.
• Online Divorce Platforms: Offer convenient document preparation for $200–$600, guiding you step-by-step through California’s court forms.
• Mediation Divorce: Neutral mediators help couples resolve custody or asset issues for $150–$400 per session.
• Flat-Fee Attorney Divorce: Lawyers offer pre-set pricing (usually $2,000–$3,000) for reviewing paperwork and court representation.
• Limited Scope Services: Attorneys help with specific steps, such as property division or parenting plans, reducing overall cost.
Filing Fees and Legal Requirements in Los Angeles [2025–2026]
Every uncontested divorce in Los Angeles requires paying court filing fees unless waived. The Los Angeles Superior Court sets these rates, and they apply countywide.
• Initial filing fee: $435 when the petition is filed.
• Response fee: $435 if the other spouse files a response.
• Stipulation and order fee: $20 for additional court orders if needed.
• Fee waivers: Available for low-income individuals through the Request to Waive Court Fees (Form FW-001).
• Processing time: Most uncontested divorces finalize in 6 months, California’s mandatory waiting period.
Area-Wise Divorce Cost in Los Angeles [2025–2026]
Divorce service costs vary across Los Angeles based on attorney fees, local filing offices, and mediation rates.
• Downtown Los Angeles: $600–$2,500 — wide access to legal aid and mediation centers.
• Beverly Hills: $2,000–$3,000 — premium legal firms with concierge-level divorce handling.
• Santa Monica: $1,200–$2,800 — balanced pricing with family law specialists.
• Hollywood / West Hollywood: $800–$2,500 — mid-range options and online legal support.
• San Fernando Valley: $600–$1,500 — affordable law offices and legal clinics.
• Pasadena / Glendale: $700–$1,800 — family-friendly mediation centers and online services.
• South Los Angeles: $450–$1,000 — low-cost self-help legal centers and nonprofits.
Attorney Fees for Uncontested Divorce in Los Angeles [2025–2026]
While attorney help isn’t mandatory for an uncontested divorce, it can simplify paperwork and avoid mistakes. Flat-fee divorce lawyers in Los Angeles charge much less than hourly litigators.
• Flat-fee lawyers: $2,000–$3,000 total for full service.
• Hourly rates: $200–$450/hour for specific legal assistance.
• Limited-scope representation: $500–$1,200 for document review or settlement drafting.
• Consultation-only service: $150–$300 for a one-time meeting.
• Paralegal document prep: $250–$500 for completing forms and filings.
Mediation and Counseling Costs in Los Angeles [2025–2026]
Mediation is an effective and affordable route for uncontested divorces, especially for couples with children or shared property.
• Private mediator: $150–$400 per session (typically 2–5 sessions).
• Court-connected mediation: Free or low-cost for qualifying couples.
• Family counseling services: $100–$250 per session, often voluntary but helpful for smooth settlements.
• Parenting plan mediation: $200–$350 per session for child custody agreements.
• Hybrid mediation + legal support: Around $1,500 total for both legal and emotional guidance.
Factors Affecting Divorce Cost in Los Angeles [2025–2026]
Several elements influence how much an uncontested divorce costs in Los Angeles. Couples can manage these costs by simplifying issues and limiting legal involvement.
• Whether children are involved: Child custody and support agreements increase cost and time.
• Amount of shared property or debt: Complex divisions raise legal drafting expenses.
• Attorney vs. no attorney: Self-filing saves thousands.
• Court location: Filing offices have consistent fees but processing times vary.
• Mediation needs: More sessions mean higher mediation costs.
Cost Comparison: DIY vs. Mediated vs. Lawyer Divorce [2025–2026]
| Divorce Type | Average Cost | Professional Help | Completion Time | Difficulty Level |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| DIY (Self-Filed) | $450–$800 | Minimal | 6–8 months | Moderate |
| Online Service | $200–$600 | Guided | 6–8 months | Easy |
| Mediation Divorce | $1,500–$2,800 | Mediator | 6–9 months | Moderate |
| Attorney Divorce | $2,000–$3,000 | Lawyer | 6–9 months | Easy |
Summary of Uncontested Divorce Costs in Los Angeles [2025–2026]
| Area | Average Cost | Typical Services | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Downtown LA | $600–$2,500 | Legal aid, mediation | Wide availability |
| Beverly Hills | $2,000–$3,000 | Attorney-managed | Premium pricing |
| Santa Monica | $1,200–$2,800 | Mediation and legal help | Balanced options |
| Hollywood / West Hollywood | $800–$2,500 | Online + attorney | Mid-range cost |
| San Fernando Valley | $600–$1,500 | Paralegal, legal clinic | Affordable choice |
| Pasadena / Glendale | $700–$1,800 | Family mediation | Family-focused |
| South Los Angeles | $450–$1,000 | Self-help centers | Cheapest option |
FAQ: Uncontested Divorce Cost in Los Angeles [2025–2026]
Q1. What is the cheapest way to get a divorce in Los Angeles?
Filing a DIY uncontested divorce or using online services can cost as little as $450–$600 total.
Q2. How long does an uncontested divorce take in California?
Even if both spouses agree, the state’s mandatory waiting period is 6 months before finalization.
Q3. Do I need a lawyer for an uncontested divorce?
No, you can file on your own, but a flat-fee lawyer ensures your documents are error-free.
Q4. Can court fees be waived in Los Angeles?
Yes. If you qualify for low-income assistance, you can request a fee waiver (Form FW-001).
Q5. Are children and property issues allowed in an uncontested divorce?
Yes, as long as both spouses fully agree on custody, visitation, and division terms.
Q6. How much does divorce mediation cost in Los Angeles?
Mediators typically charge $150–$400 per session, depending on experience and case complexity.
Q7. Can an uncontested divorce become contested later?
Yes. If disagreements arise, the case may shift to a contested divorce, increasing legal costs significantly.