Divorce in Boston can cost anywhere from a few hundred dollars to tens of thousands, depending on whether it’s amicable or highly contested. This guide explains the Boston divorce filing fee, typical attorney and mediation costs, and how asset division and custody disputes can raise expenses. You’ll also learn how Divorce.com helps Massachusetts residents complete their divorce affordably online.

Average Divorce Costs in Boston

Boston Divorce Filing Fee

The Massachusetts Probate and Family Court charges approximately $215 to file a divorce, which includes the filing fee and a $15 surcharge for the summons.
Additional costs may include:

• Service of process: $50–$100

• Certified copies or motions: $20–$40 each

If you can’t afford the fees, you can apply for an Affidavit of Indigency to have the court waive or defer costs.

Boston Divorce Attorney Cost

Attorney rates in Boston are higher than the national average due to the region’s legal market.

• Hourly rate: $300–$600 per hour.

• Retainers: $4,000–$10,000 for contested cases.

• Flat fees for uncontested cases: $1,000–$2,000 total.

Tips for saving on attorney fees

• Use limited assistance representation (LAR) for specific tasks.

• Prepare all financial documents before meetings.

• Use Divorce.com’s online platform for uncontested divorces to avoid hourly billing.

Boston Uncontested Divorce Cost

When both spouses agree on major issues like custody, property, and support, an uncontested divorce—called a Joint Petition for Divorce (1A)—is the most affordable path.

Typical Boston uncontested divorce cost: $500–$2,000 total, including court fees.
Processing time averages 60–90 days after filing and attending a brief hearing.

Divorce.com advantage:
Our guided online service generates Massachusetts-specific forms, helps you file accurately, and provides optional attorney review—all for one flat, transparent price.

Boston Divorce Mediation Cost

Mediation offers couples a cooperative alternative to litigation.
Typical Boston divorce mediation cost:

• Hourly rates: $200–$400 per hour.

• Half-day sessions: $800–$1,200 total.

• Full-day sessions: $1,500–$2,500 total.

Most couples complete mediation within two to three sessions, resulting in total costs between $2,500 and $7,000—far less than going to trial.

Boston Contested Divorce Cost

If you and your spouse cannot agree on custody, alimony, or property division, a contested divorce becomes necessary.

Typical Boston contested divorce cost: $15,000–$35,000+, depending on complexity.
Drivers of higher costs include:

• Multiple hearings or motions

• Depositions and discovery

• Expert witnesses (financial or psychological)

• Lengthy custody disputes

Contested cases in Massachusetts can last a year or more, especially when trial preparation is extensive.

Boston Asset Division Cost

Massachusetts follows an equitable distribution model, meaning marital property is divided fairly but not necessarily equally.

Expenses contributing to the Boston asset division cost:

• Real estate appraisals: $400–$1,200 each

• Business valuations: $5,000–$15,000+

• QDROs for retirement accounts: $300–$600 each

• Forensic accounting: $200–$400/hour

Agreeing on valuations early or using a single neutral expert can save thousands.

Boston Custody Dispute Cost

Custody and parenting disputes often make divorces more expensive.
Potential costs include:

• Guardian ad litem (GAL): $2,000–$6,000+

• Custody evaluator or psychologist: $2,500–$7,500+

• Parenting coordinator: $1,000–$3,000+

Massachusetts courts require a parenting class in cases involving children, usually costing about $80–$150 per parent.

Divorce.com vs. Traditional Divorce in Boston

Typical Boston Divorce Budget

FAQs

Can I file for divorce in Boston without a lawyer?
Yes. Massachusetts allows self-representation, and Divorce.com provides guided forms and filing support for a smooth, court-approved process.

How long does a divorce take in Massachusetts?
An uncontested (1A) divorce usually finalizes within 120 days after the hearing. Contested cases can take 6–18 months.

What is the waiting period in Massachusetts?
After approval, there’s a 90-day “nisi” waiting period before the divorce becomes final.

Is mediation required in Massachusetts?
While not mandatory statewide, judges often recommend mediation to resolve disputes before trial.

What is the most affordable way to get divorced in Boston?
An uncontested online divorce through Divorce.com, including court filing, typically costs under $1,000 total.

The Bottom Line

The average cost of divorce in Boston depends on how much you and your spouse can agree on. Couples who cooperate can finalize their divorce for under $2,000, while contested cases may exceed $30,000.

With Divorce.com, Boston residents can complete their divorce online with flat-fee pricing, Massachusetts-specific forms, and optional attorney review—saving time, stress, and thousands in legal fees.

👉 Start your Boston divorce online today at Divorce.com and move forward with clarity and confidence.