How Much Does Divorce Cost in Bakersfield, CA (2025 Guide)

For couples divorcing in Bakersfield or anywhere in Kern County, total cost depends on two key factors:
(1) How much you and your spouse agree on, and
(2) How many professionals you need.
Uncontested cases with few disagreements can cost under $2,000 plus court fees. Contested cases involving custody, complex financials, or multiple hearings can reach $15,000–$30,000+.

Average Bakersfield Divorce Costs

*Varies with court calendars & level of conflict
†Note: California imposes a mandatory 6-month waiting period before a divorce can be finalized.

Bakersfield Divorce Filing Fee

California sets uniform filing fees statewide:

• Filing fee: Mid-$400s (Petition for Dissolution)

• Add-ons: Service of process, certified copies, motions, parenting class (if required for custody cases)

If you meet income qualifications, you may apply for a fee waiver. The filing fee is consistent across Kern County, from Bakersfield to Delano to Ridgecrest.

Bakersfield Divorce Attorney Cost

Legal rates in Kern County fall below major coastal cities but still represent a large portion of divorce expense.

• Hourly rates: ~$275–$425/hour

• Retainers (contested): $4,000–$10,000+

• Flat fees (uncontested cases): $1,000–$2,000 depending on children/assets

Cost increases dramatically with disputes over custody, business interests, discovery, and hearings.

Bakersfield Uncontested Divorce Cost

If you and your spouse agree on:

• Property/debt division

• Parenting time & legal custody

• Child support & spousal support

• Division of retirement accounts

…you may complete an uncontested divorce for:

• Total: $500–$2,000 + court costs

• Why it's cheaper: minimal attorney hours, few court interactions, no experts

Uncontested divorces are the most budget-friendly option in Bakersfield.

Bakersfield Divorce Mediation Cost

Mediation resolves disagreements with a neutral mediator — and often avoids costly litigation.

• Rates: $200–$350/hour

• Half-day sessions: ~$800–$1,200

• Full-day sessions: ~$1,500–$2,500
  Most couples settle in 2–3 sessions, leading to totals between $2,000–$6,500.

This approach is popular in Kern County due to its ability to reduce both conflict and expense.

Bakersfield Contested Divorce Cost

Contested cases involve litigation, multiple filings, and expert work:

• Typical cost: $12,000–$30,000+

• Cost drivers:

  • Custody evaluations

  • Real-estate & business valuations

  • Forensic accountants

  • Depositions & discovery

  • Multiple hearings and trial preparation

Cases involving complex assets like farms, oil-related businesses, or rental property portfolios can exceed these ranges.

Asset Division Cost in California (Community Property)

California is a community property state, meaning most assets acquired during marriage are divided equally.

Possible added expenses:

• Home appraisal: $600–$1,200

• Business valuation: $7,500–$20,000+

• QDRO for retirement: $300–$700 per plan

• Forensic accounting (if needed): $200–$400+/hour

Agreeing early on values drastically reduces costs.

Custody & Parenting Dispute Cost

Parenting-related disputes are often the largest cost wildcard:

• Custody evaluations: $3,000–$10,000+

• Minor’s counsel / GAL: several thousand

• Therapy, supervised visitation, parenting coordinators

• Additional attorney hours for hearings & mediation

In Kern County, judges strongly encourage agreements and mediation to reduce conflict and expense.

Divorce.com vs. Traditional Divorce in Bakersfield

Typical Bakersfield Divorce Budget

FAQs

How long does a divorce take in Bakersfield?
California requires a 6-month mandatory waiting period, even if uncontested.

Can I file without a lawyer?
Yes. Many Bakersfield couples self-file, especially for uncontested cases. Limited-scope review helps minimize mistakes.

Is mediation required?
Family courts may order mediation for custody disputes. Financial mediation is voluntary but commonly saves thousands.

Where do I file?
At the Kern County Superior Court – Family Law Division in Bakersfield.

The Bottom Line

In Bakersfield, agreement = savings. If you and your spouse align on property and parenting, your cost may stay under $2,000 plus court fees. If conflict escalates, contested cases can reach well into five figures.