15 cost categories with national averages and ranges
Understanding divorce costs helps you plan and budget. Below is every major expense category involved in the divorce process, from court filing fees to forensic accountants.
| Category | Low | High | National Avg | Required? |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Attorney Fees | $3,000 | $25,000 | $12,000 | Optional |
| Business Valuation | $5,000 | $30,000 | $12,000 | Depends |
| Forensic Accountant | $3,000 | $15,000 | $7,500 | Optional |
| Custody Evaluation | $1,500 | $10,000 | $5,000 | Depends |
| Mediation | $1,000 | $8,000 | $3,500 | Optional |
| Guardian Ad Litem | $1,000 | $5,000 | $2,500 | Depends |
| Therapist/Counselor | $500 | $5,000 | $2,000 | Optional |
| Deposition Costs | $500 | $5,000 | $2,000 | Depends |
| Tax Advisor | $200 | $2,000 | $700 | Optional |
| Court Costs | $100 | $1,500 | $500 | Required |
| Document Preparation | $200 | $1,500 | $500 | Optional |
| Real Estate Appraisal | $300 | $600 | $450 | Depends |
| Filing Fees | $50 | $435 | $200 | Required |
| Process Server | $30 | $150 | $75 | Required |
| Parenting Class | $25 | $100 | $50 | Depends |