Texas divorce costs range from a few hundred dollars for a simple uncontested case to tens of thousands for contested litigation.
The filing fee for a divorce petition in Texas varies by county but typically ranges from $250 to $350.
An uncontested divorce can be completed for $500 to $2,000 total including filing fees and basic legal document assistance.
Contested divorces involving children, property disputes, or business interests typically cost $10,000 to $60,000 or more per party. Texans seeking to minimize costs should review both the simple divorce cost in Texas guide and the general uncontested divorce cost overview.
Texas Divorce Filing Fees
Filing fees for an original petition for divorce in Texas vary by county, generally ranging from $250 to $350. Some counties have additional fees. Fee waivers (Statement of Inability to Afford Payment) are available for low-income filers.
Texas legal separation does not legally exist — you are either married or divorced in Texas. For a broader look at how attorney fees interact with filing costs, the divorce attorney fees guide explains hourly rates and retainer structures.
Uncontested Divorce in Texas
An uncontested divorce in Texas requires a 60-day waiting period after filing before the divorce can be finalized.
For spouses who agree on all terms (property, children, debt), the total cost can range from $500 to $2,000, including court costs and possible document preparation fees.
Some online services offer Texas divorce document preparation starting around $300 plus court filing fees.
See the simple divorce cost in Texas guide for a full breakdown of DIY, online-service, and attorney-assisted options. Couples should also understand alimony tax deductibility and child support tax implications before finalizing any financial agreements.
Contested Divorce Costs
Contested Texas divorces typically cost $15,000 to $50,000+ per party in total attorney fees.
Texas family law attorney hourly rates range from $200 to $500 per hour.
Cases with child custody disputes, business valuations, or separate vs. community property disputes require more attorney time and potentially expert witnesses (forensic accountants, business appraisers).
For full attorney cost context, the divorce attorney fees guide covers what drives costs in litigated cases. Residents can also compare the divorce cost in California and divorce cost in Florida to see how Texas compares with other major states.
Texas Community Property
Texas is a community property state. Property acquired during the marriage is presumed to be community property and is typically divided equally. However, courts can consider fault in the breakup of the marriage when dividing community property — unlike some community property states.
Documenting separate property (acquired before marriage or received as inheritance/gift) is important for asset division. Divorcing spouses should also understand the savings benchmarks they should target as they transition to single-income budgeting after the divorce is finalized.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the cost to file for divorce in Texas?
Filing fees range from $250 to $350 depending on the county. Total costs for a simple uncontested divorce are $500 to $2,000. See the simple divorce cost in Texas guide for detailed cost options.
How long does a divorce take in Texas?
Texas requires a 60-day waiting period after filing. Uncontested divorces are often finalized in 2 to 4 months; contested divorces can take 6 to 18 months or more.
Is Texas a community property state?
Yes. Texas divides marital property as community property, with a presumption of equal division. Courts can award disproportionate shares based on fault in some circumstances.
Can I get a divorce in Texas without a lawyer?
Yes. Pro se (self-represented) divorce is allowed in Texas. OAG (Office of the Attorney General) resources and Texas Law Help provide free forms and guidance.
Review the simple divorce cost in Texas guide for detailed DIY instructions and cost estimates.
Does Texas have a waiting period for divorce?
Yes.
Texas requires a mandatory 60-day waiting period after filing the original petition before a divorce decree can be granted.
Compare this to California's 6-month waiting period covered in the divorce cost in California guide, or Florida's no mandatory waiting period for simplified dissolutions covered in the divorce cost in Florida guide.
Sources & References
- Texas Courts — Family Law Self-Help — https://www.txcourts.gov/programs-initiatives/legal-access-to-the-courts/family-law/
- Texas Law Help — Divorce — https://texaslawhelp.org/issues/family/divorce
- Texas Family Code — Chapter 7: Awards — https://statutes.capitol.texas.gov/Docs/FA/htm/FA.7.htm
Last updated: April 27, 2026