Educational estimates only — not legal advice. Consult a licensed family-law attorney in your state. If you're in danger, the National Domestic Violence Hotline is free and confidential, 24/7: 1-800-799-7233.

Divorce Cost Calculator

The honest answer to what a divorce costs is a range. Pick your state and situation to see where you'd likely land, and why.

Estimated total in Alabama

$3,200 – $11,800

A planning range, not a quote. Pro-se (DIY) filings can cost far less; highly contested cases can cost far more.

Court filing feeAlabama filing fee, approximate; varies by county$200 – $400
Attorney fees≈ 6–16 attorney hours at $250–$400/hr$1,500 – $6,400
MediationTypical for an uncontested / mediated divorce$1,500 – $5,000

What drives the cost

  • Contested vs uncontested is the biggest lever — disagreement means attorney hours, and attorney hours are most of the bill.
  • Children add custody evaluations, parenting plans, and sometimes a guardian ad litem.
  • Complex assets — a business, multiple properties, pensions — bring in appraisers and forensic accountants.
  • Filing fees are the small part. They vary by state and county, and the figures here are approximate.

Educational estimate, not legal advice. Real costs depend on your county, your attorney's rate, and how the case unfolds. Many divorces settle for less; some cost much more. Consult a licensed family-law attorney in your state.

Plan the whole process, not just the cost

Anew breaks down a cost range for your state and situation, explains your documents, and lays out the steps ahead.

Need a support figure too? Try the child-support ballpark.