Understanding Divorce Costs in Texas: Uncontested vs. Contested Divorce

How Much Does a Divorce Cost in Texas?

If you’re considering divorce, one of the first questions you’ll ask is, “How much will this cost me?” The truth is, divorce costs in Texas vary widely depending on the circumstances of your case. Whether it’s an uncontested divorce, where both parties agree on everything, or a contested divorce that involves drawn-out disputes, knowing what to expect can help you plan ahead.

Here’s a practical breakdown of what an uncontested and contested divorce could cost you and why.

The Cost of an Uncontested Divorce

An uncontested divorce is when both parties agree on major issues like:

• Division of property and assets.
• Child custody and visitation schedules.
• Child support and other financial obligations.

In Texas, even if you and your spouse agree on everything, there are still basic costs involved, including:

• Filing fees: Typically $300–$400, depending on the county.
• Document preparation fees: To ensure your paperwork is filed correctly.
• Attorney fees: Hiring a lawyer ensures you don’t make mistakes that could delay or complicate the process.

For a straightforward uncontested divorce, you should plan to budget at least $5,000. This covers legal fees, paperwork filing, and other court-related expenses.

While $5,000 might sound steep, having a lawyer can ensure everything is done properly and avoid delays caused by incomplete or incorrect paperwork.

Why Contested Divorces Cost So Much More

When couples cannot agree on issues like custody, property division, or spousal support, a divorce becomes contested. These divorces are often more expensive because of factors like:

1. Litigation Costs: Taking a case to court requires multiple hearings, legal motions, and hours of trial preparation, which quickly add up in attorney fees.
2. Complex Property Division: If you’re dividing businesses, real estate, or investments, expect to pay more due to the complexity of valuing and splitting assets.
3. Custody Disputes: Fighting over custody arrangements adds emotional and financial strain, as lawyers may need to gather evidence, file motions, and represent you in hearings.

For highly contested divorces, costs can easily climb into tens or even hundreds of thousands of dollars. The more you fight, the higher the financial and emotional toll.

How to Manage Divorce Costs

If you’re worried about costs spiraling out of control, here are a few strategies to manage your legal fees:

• Be Clear About Your Goals: Knowing what matters most can help you avoid unnecessary battles.
• Communicate Efficiently: Instead of multiple emails or phone calls, group your questions into one organized message to minimize billed time.
• Work with the Right Attorney: A knowledgeable attorney can guide you through the process efficiently, saving you both time and money.

Divorce costs in Texas depend largely on whether your case is uncontested or contested. While uncontested divorces are more affordable, contested divorces can quickly become expensive. Understanding these costs and planning ahead can help you navigate the process with confidence.

At Hembree Bell Law, we’re committed to helping Texas families find clarity and peace of mind.

?? Schedule your free case evaluation today by calling 512-351-3168 or visiting www.hembreebell.com.