How much do divorce attorneys charge in Fort Worth, TX?

Divorce attorneys in Fort Worth, Texas charge $200-$600 per hour, with an average rate of $300-$350/hour. Most require upfront retainers ranging from $1,500-$3,000 for uncontested divorces to $5,000-$15,000 for contested cases. Total attorney costs typically range from $2,000-$5,000 for uncontested divorces to $10,000-$50,000+ for contested divorces.

What is the filing fee for divorce in Fort Worth?

The divorce filing fee in Fort Worth, Texas is $250-$350. This fee is paid to the Texas District Court when you file your divorce petition. If you cannot afford the filing fee, you can request a fee waiver by filing an Application for Waiver of Court Fees showing low income or receipt of public assistance.

Can I get a free divorce in Fort Worth, TX?

While completely free divorce is rare, you can significantly reduce costs in Fort Worth. Request a fee waiver for the $250-$350 filing fee if your income is below 125% of federal poverty level or you receive public assistance. Legal aid organizations in Texas may provide free attorney services if you meet income requirements. Minimum costs will still include service of process fees ($40-$75).

How much does online divorce cost in Fort Worth?

Online divorce services in Fort Worth cost $500-$2,000 plus the $250-$350 court filing fee. These services prepare all required Texas divorce forms based on your information but don't provide legal advice or court representation. Total cost is typically $1,000-$2,500, which is significantly cheaper than hiring an attorney ($5,000-$30,000) but only works for uncontested divorces.

What factors affect divorce costs in Fort Worth?

Divorce costs in Fort Worth are affected by: whether the divorce is contested or uncontested (uncontested is 70-80% cheaper), complexity of asset division, child custody disputes, attorney hourly rates ($200-$600/hour in Fort Worth), need for expert witnesses (business valuations, custody evaluators), court filing and motion fees, and whether you use DIY, online service, or attorney representation.

Can I afford a divorce in Fort Worth if I'm low income?

Yes. Low-income residents of Fort Worth have several options: (1) Request fee waiver for the $250-$350 filing fee, (2) Apply for free legal aid services through Texas legal services organizations, (3) Seek pro bono representation through Texas bar association, (4) Use DIY divorce to minimize costs, (5) Ask attorneys about payment plans, (6) Use limited scope representation for specific tasks only.

How can I reduce my divorce costs in Fort Worth?

To reduce divorce costs in Fort Worth: (1) Reach agreement with spouse (uncontested divorce is 70-80% cheaper), (2) Be organized with documents to reduce attorney time, (3) Communicate efficiently with your attorney, (4) Consider mediation ($1,500-$5,000) instead of litigation ($10,000-$50,000+), (5) Use limited scope representation for specific tasks, (6) Handle tasks yourself where possible, (7) Use online divorce services ($500-$2,000) instead of full attorney representation.

"The Most Trusted

Name in Online Divorce"

Exclusive

Online Divorce Partner

Best

Online Divorce Service

ADVISOR

We offer an online guided path through divorce that helps couples avoid unnecessary conflict and costs.

Start your divorce

See if this is right for me

"The Most Trusted

Name in Online Divorce"

Exclusive

Online Divorce Partner

Best

Online Divorce Service

ADVISOR

We offer an online guided path through divorce that helps couples avoid unnecessary conflict and costs.

Start your divorce

See if this is right for me

Written By:

Liz Pharo

CEO and Founder, Divorce.com

Written By:

Liz Pharo

CEO and Founder, Divorce.com

Reviewed By:

Austin Yokley

CFO, Divorce.com

Reviewed By:

Austin Yokley

CFO, Divorce.com

How Much Does Divorce Cost in Fort Worth, Texas?

Q: What's the cheapest way to get divorced in Fort Worth?

The cheapest way to get divorced in Fort Worth is DIY (do-it-yourself) for an uncontested case. Total costs: $250-$350 filing fee + $40-$75 for service of process + $20-$50 for miscellaneous expenses = approximately $150-$200 total. This works only if both spouses agree on all terms and you're comfortable handling paperwork yourself.

Getting divorced in Fort Worth costs anywhere from $1,000 to $50,000+ depending on whether your divorce is contested or uncontested, if you hire an attorney, and how complex your situation is.

This comprehensive guide breaks down all divorce costs in Fort Worth, Texas, including court filing fees, attorney costs, and ways to reduce expenses.

Quick Cost Overview for Fort Worth:

Court filing fee: $250-$350 (paid to Texas District Court)
Uncontested divorce (DIY): $1,000-$2,000 total
Uncontested divorce (with attorney): $2,000-$5,000
Contested divorce (with attorney): $10,000-$50,000+
Average divorce cost in Fort Worth: $12,000-$15,000

Court Filing Fees in Fort Worth, Texas

The first cost you'll encounter when filing for divorce in Fort Worth is the court filing fee.

Filing fee: $250-$350

This fee is paid to the Texas District Court when you file your divorce petition. It covers the administrative costs of processing your case.

Additional Court Fees in Fort Worth

Beyond the initial filing fee, you may encounter:

Service of process: $40-$75

Required to officially notify your spouse of the divorce
Typically handled by sheriff's office or private process server

Certified copies of decree: $5-$15 per copy

You'll need these for changing your name, updating accounts, etc.
Request 3-5 copies when your divorce is finalized

Motion filing fees: $25-$75 per motion

If you need to file additional motions during your case
Only applies if issues arise during the divorce

Parenting class (if children): $50-$100

Many Texas courts require this for divorces involving children
Can often be completed online

Total court costs (uncontested): $250-$350 + $100-$200 in additional fees

Attorney Costs for Divorce in Fort Worth

If you hire a divorce attorney in Fort Worth, attorney fees will be your largest expense.

Hourly Rates for Fort Worth Divorce Attorneys

Typical hourly rates in Fort Worth, Texas:

Junior attorneys: $200-$300/hour
Mid-level attorneys: $300-$400/hour
Senior/experienced attorneys: $400-$600/hour

Average hourly rate in Fort Worth: $300-$350/hour

Retainer Fees in Fort Worth

Most Fort Worth divorce attorneys require an upfront retainer:

Typical retainers:

Uncontested divorce: $1,500-$3,000
Contested divorce: $5,000-$15,000
High-conflict/complex: $15,000-$25,000+

The retainer is deposited into a trust account and the attorney bills against it as they work on your case. If the retainer is depleted, you'll need to replenish it.

Total Attorney Costs by Case Type

Uncontested divorce with attorney:

Attorney fees: $1,500-$4,000
Court costs: $250-$350 + fees
Total: $2,000-$5,000

Contested divorce with attorney:

Attorney fees: $7,000-$40,000+
Court costs: $250-$350 + fees
Expert witnesses/discovery: $2,000-$10,000
Total: $10,000-$50,000+

High-conflict divorce (trial):

Attorney fees: $25,000-$100,000+
Court costs and experts: $5,000-$20,000
Total: $30,000-$120,000+

What Affects Attorney Costs in Fort Worth?

Your costs will be higher if:

❌ Spouse contests the divorce
❌ Custody is disputed
❌ Significant assets to divide
❌ Business valuation needed
❌ Spouse hides assets
❌ Case goes to trial
❌ Appeals are filed

Your costs will be lower if:

✅ Both spouses agree on all terms
✅ Simple asset division
✅ No custody disputes
✅ Open communication
✅ Minimal attorney involvement needed

DIY Divorce Costs in Fort Worth

If your divorce is uncontested and you feel comfortable handling paperwork, DIY divorce is the cheapest option.

DIY divorce costs in Fort Worth:

Court filing fee: $250-$350
Service of process: $40-$75
Certified copies: $15-$30
Document preparation (optional): $0-$500
Total: $150-$650

When DIY Divorce Works in Fort Worth

DIY divorce is appropriate if:

✅ Both spouses agree on all terms
✅ No complex assets or debts
✅ No contested child custody
✅ Short marriage (under 10 years)
✅ Both willing to cooperate
✅ Comfortable with paperwork

When to Hire an Attorney in Fort Worth

Hire a Fort Worth divorce attorney if:

❌ Your spouse hired an attorney
❌ Significant assets or business interests
❌ Custody is contested
❌ Domestic violence concerns
❌ Spouse is hiding assets
❌ Retirement accounts to divide
❌ You feel overwhelmed

Online Divorce Services in Fort Worth

Online divorce services offer a middle ground between DIY and hiring an attorney.

Popular online divorce services for Texas:

Cost: $500-$2,000
What you get: Prepared Texas divorce forms based on your information
You still file: Forms are prepared, you file them with Fort Worth court

Pros:

✅ Cheaper than attorney ($500-$2,000 vs $5,000-$30,000)
✅ Easier than pure DIY
✅ Forms guaranteed to be correct for Texas
✅ Customer support included

Cons:

❌ Not legal advice
❌ Only works for uncontested divorce
❌ You still handle filing and process
❌ No court representation

Best for: Uncontested divorces where you want help with paperwork but don't need an attorney.

Additional Divorce Costs in Fort Worth

Beyond filing fees and attorneys, budget for these potential costs:

Mediation Costs

If you and your spouse use mediation to resolve disputes:

Cost: $100-$300/hour in Fort Worth
Total: $1,500-$5,000 for full mediation
Benefit: Much cheaper than litigation

Expert Witness Fees

For complex cases requiring experts:

Business valuation: $3,000-$10,000
Real estate appraisal: $300-$600
Forensic accountant: $5,000-$20,000
Custody evaluator: $2,000-$10,000
Vocational expert: $2,000-$5,000

Document Production

Subpoenas: $50-$200 each
Deposition costs: $500-$2,000 per deposition
Court reporter: $300-$600 per session

Post-Divorce Costs

QDRO (dividing retirement): $500-$2,500
Refinancing home: $2,000-$5,000
Name change (separate from divorce): $150-$300
Updating estate documents: $500-$2,000

How to Reduce Divorce Costs in Fort Worth

1. Try to Reach Agreement

Uncontested divorces cost 70-80% less than contested.

Work with your spouse to agree on:

Property division
Debt allocation
Child custody and support (if applicable)
Spousal support

Even partial agreement reduces attorney time and costs.

2. Be Organized

Reduce attorney billable hours by:

✅ Gathering financial documents yourself
✅ Creating detailed asset/debt lists
✅ Organizing information before meetings
✅ Responding to requests quickly
✅ Being prepared for every conversation

Unorganized clients can add $2,000-$5,000 in unnecessary attorney time.

3. Communicate Efficiently

Attorneys bill for every email, call, and text:

Batch questions instead of calling repeatedly
Use email for non-urgent matters
Be concise and specific
Avoid venting to your attorney (use a therapist instead)

Inefficient communication can add $1,000-$3,000 in fees.

4. Do What You Can Yourself

Even with an attorney, you can:

Gather your own financial documents
Complete financial affidavits
Attend mediation sessions
Communicate directly with spouse (if safe)

Every task you handle = attorney hours saved.

5. Use Limited Scope Representation

Instead of full representation:

Consultation only: $200-$500 for legal advice
Document review: $500-$1,500 for attorney to review your work
Court appearance only: $1,000-$2,500 for attorney at one hearing

This "unbundled" approach can save $3,000-$10,000 compared to full representation.

6. Consider Mediation

Mediation costs: $1,500-$5,000 total
Litigation costs: $10,000-$50,000+

If you can mediate successfully, you save $5,000-$45,000.

7. Request Fee Waiver

If you cannot afford the $250-$350 filing fee:

File an Application for Waiver of Court Fees
Show income below poverty guidelines
Or show receipt of public assistance (SNAP, TANF, Medicaid)
Texas courts waive fees for qualifying individuals

Fort Worth Divorce Cost Calculator

Use this calculator to estimate your divorce costs:

Step 1: Filing Fee

Base cost: $250-$350

Step 2: Attorney or DIY?

Option A: DIY

Filing fee: $250-$350
Service: $50
Misc: $50
Subtotal: Approximately $250 + $100

Option B: Online Service

Online service: $1,000
Filing fee: $250-$350
Service: $50
Subtotal: Approximately $1,250

Option C: Attorney (Uncontested)

Attorney: $3,000
Filing fee: $250-$350
Subtotal: Approximately $3,250

Option D: Attorney (Contested)

Attorney: $15,000
Filing fee: $250-$350
Experts: $3,000
Subtotal: Approximately $18,250

Step 3: Add Additional Costs

If you have children:

Add $50-$100 for parenting class

If dividing retirement accounts:

Add $500-$2,500 for QDRO

If need appraisals:

Add $300-$10,000 depending on assets

Paying for Your Fort Worth Divorce

Payment Options

1. Pay from savings

Ideal if you have funds available
No interest or fees

2. Payment plans with attorney

Some Fort Worth attorneys offer payment plans
May require larger initial retainer
Ask about this option upfront

3. Credit cards

Quick but expensive due to interest
Only for small amounts if possible

4. Personal loan

Lower interest than credit cards
Fixed payment terms
Check your credit first

5. Borrow from retirement (last resort)

Early withdrawal = 10% penalty + income tax
Consider this only if absolutely necessary

6. Legal aid (if low income)

Free or reduced-cost legal services
Income limits apply
Limited availability in Fort Worth

Fee Waiver for Low Income

If your income is below 125% of federal poverty level OR you receive means-tested benefits, you can request fee waiver for the $250-$350 filing fee.

File: Application for Waiver of Court Fees and Costs with Texas District Court

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does an uncontested divorce cost in Fort Worth?

An uncontested divorce in Fort Worth, Texas costs $1,000-$5,000 total. This includes the $250-$350 court filing fee, service of process ($40-$75), and either DIY preparation or attorney assistance ($0-$4,000).

How much does a contested divorce cost in Fort Worth?

A contested divorce in Fort Worth typically costs $10,000-$50,000 or more, depending on complexity. This includes attorney fees ($7,000-$40,000+), court costs ($250-$350 plus additional fees), and potential expert witness fees.

Can I get a divorce for free in Fort Worth?

You can request a fee waiver for the $250-$350 filing fee if your income qualifies. Additionally, legal aid organizations in Texas may provide free attorney services if you meet income requirements. However, most people will have some costs even with fee waivers.

How much do divorce attorneys cost in Fort Worth?

Divorce attorneys in Fort Worth, Texas charge $200-$600 per hour, with an average of $300-$350/hour. They typically require retainers of $1,500-$15,000 depending on case complexity.

Is online divorce cheaper in Fort Worth?

Yes. Online divorce services cost $500-$2,000 compared to $5,000-$30,000 for attorney representation. However, online divorce only works for uncontested cases where both spouses agree on all terms.

What's the cheapest way to get divorced in Fort Worth?

The cheapest divorce in Fort Worth is DIY (do-it-yourself) for an uncontested case: $250-$350 filing fee + $40-$75 service of process + $20-$50 miscellaneous costs = approximately $250-$200 total.

Does Texas require separation before divorce?

No. Texas allows no-fault divorce without separation.

Can I get financial assistance for divorce in Fort Worth?

Yes. Options include: (1) filing for fee waiver if low income, (2) applying for legal aid services, (3) limited scope representation (cheaper than full attorney), (4) payment plans with attorneys, and (5) pro bono services through Texas bar association.

Related Resources

Complete Texas Divorce Guide
Fort Worth Divorce Lawyers
Texas Child Custody Laws
Texas Child Support Calculator
File for Divorce in Texas Without a Lawyer

Get Help with Your Fort Worth Divorce

Next steps:

Determine your case type: Uncontested or contested?
Calculate estimated costs: Use the guidelines above
Decide on representation: DIY, online service, or attorney?
Get cost estimates: Consult with Fort Worth divorce attorneys (most offer free consultations)
Explore fee waivers: If low income, apply for court fee waiver

Remember: The most expensive divorce is a contested one. If possible, work with your spouse to reach an agreement and save thousands in legal fees.

Disclaimer: This guide provides general cost information for divorces in Fort Worth, Texas. Actual costs vary significantly based on individual circumstances. Consult with a Fort Worth divorce attorney for specific advice about your situation.

Last Updated: February 2026

Fort Worth Divorce Cost

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Divorce doesn’t have to cost as much as a car.

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over 1 million divorces

We provide everything you need to get divorced — from conflict resolution to filing support and access to divorce experts — in one comprehensive, convenient online platform.

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The team at divorce.com was responsive and helpful during a difficult process. I would highly recommend the site for uncomplicated, amicable divorces!!
Jen B.
I came across this online. So I checked on it. It was easy and affordable. I wish I would have found this years ago.
Brandy D.
I was able to read it easily. Thanks God for this service. I will recommend it to anyone who asks this is a very easy step to do. I love it please try it you won't be disappointed
Dianna R.
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We offer a guided path through divorce that helps avoid unnecessary conflict and costs.

Start your divorce

See if this is right for me

Written By:

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CEO and Founder, Divorce.com

Reviewed By:

Austin Yokley

CFO, Divorce.com

How Much Does Divorce Cost in Fort Worth, Texas?

Getting divorced in Fort Worth costs anywhere from $1,000 to $50,000+ depending on whether your divorce is contested or uncontested, if you hire an attorney, and how complex your situation is.

This comprehensive guide breaks down all divorce costs in Fort Worth, Texas, including court filing fees, attorney costs, and ways to reduce expenses.

Quick Cost Overview for Fort Worth:

Court filing fee: $250-$350 (paid to Texas District Court)
Uncontested divorce (DIY): $1,000-$2,000 total
Uncontested divorce (with attorney): $2,000-$5,000
Contested divorce (with attorney): $10,000-$50,000+
Average divorce cost in Fort Worth: $12,000-$15,000

Court Filing Fees in Fort Worth, Texas

The first cost you'll encounter when filing for divorce in Fort Worth is the court filing fee.

Filing fee: $250-$350

This fee is paid to the Texas District Court when you file your divorce petition. It covers the administrative costs of processing your case.

Additional Court Fees in Fort Worth

Beyond the initial filing fee, you may encounter:

Service of process: $40-$75

Required to officially notify your spouse of the divorce
Typically handled by sheriff's office or private process server

Certified copies of decree: $5-$15 per copy

You'll need these for changing your name, updating accounts, etc.
Request 3-5 copies when your divorce is finalized

Motion filing fees: $25-$75 per motion

If you need to file additional motions during your case
Only applies if issues arise during the divorce

Parenting class (if children): $50-$100

Many Texas courts require this for divorces involving children
Can often be completed online

Total court costs (uncontested): $250-$350 + $100-$200 in additional fees

Attorney Costs for Divorce in Fort Worth

If you hire a divorce attorney in Fort Worth, attorney fees will be your largest expense.

Hourly Rates for Fort Worth Divorce Attorneys

Typical hourly rates in Fort Worth, Texas:

Junior attorneys: $200-$300/hour
Mid-level attorneys: $300-$400/hour
Senior/experienced attorneys: $400-$600/hour

Average hourly rate in Fort Worth: $300-$350/hour

Retainer Fees in Fort Worth

Most Fort Worth divorce attorneys require an upfront retainer:

Typical retainers:

Uncontested divorce: $1,500-$3,000
Contested divorce: $5,000-$15,000
High-conflict/complex: $15,000-$25,000+

The retainer is deposited into a trust account and the attorney bills against it as they work on your case. If the retainer is depleted, you'll need to replenish it.

Total Attorney Costs by Case Type

Uncontested divorce with attorney:

Attorney fees: $1,500-$4,000
Court costs: $250-$350 + fees
Total: $2,000-$5,000

Contested divorce with attorney:

Attorney fees: $7,000-$40,000+
Court costs: $250-$350 + fees
Expert witnesses/discovery: $2,000-$10,000
Total: $10,000-$50,000+

High-conflict divorce (trial):

Attorney fees: $25,000-$100,000+
Court costs and experts: $5,000-$20,000
Total: $30,000-$120,000+

What Affects Attorney Costs in Fort Worth?

Your costs will be higher if:

❌ Spouse contests the divorce
❌ Custody is disputed
❌ Significant assets to divide
❌ Business valuation needed
❌ Spouse hides assets
❌ Case goes to trial
❌ Appeals are filed

Your costs will be lower if:

✅ Both spouses agree on all terms
✅ Simple asset division
✅ No custody disputes
✅ Open communication
✅ Minimal attorney involvement needed

DIY Divorce Costs in Fort Worth

If your divorce is uncontested and you feel comfortable handling paperwork, DIY divorce is the cheapest option.

DIY divorce costs in Fort Worth:

Court filing fee: $250-$350
Service of process: $40-$75
Certified copies: $15-$30
Document preparation (optional): $0-$500
Total: $150-$650

When DIY Divorce Works in Fort Worth

DIY divorce is appropriate if:

✅ Both spouses agree on all terms
✅ No complex assets or debts
✅ No contested child custody
✅ Short marriage (under 10 years)
✅ Both willing to cooperate
✅ Comfortable with paperwork

When to Hire an Attorney in Fort Worth

Hire a Fort Worth divorce attorney if:

❌ Your spouse hired an attorney
❌ Significant assets or business interests
❌ Custody is contested
❌ Domestic violence concerns
❌ Spouse is hiding assets
❌ Retirement accounts to divide
❌ You feel overwhelmed

Online Divorce Services in Fort Worth

Online divorce services offer a middle ground between DIY and hiring an attorney.

Popular online divorce services for Texas:

Cost: $500-$2,000
What you get: Prepared Texas divorce forms based on your information
You still file: Forms are prepared, you file them with Fort Worth court

Pros:

✅ Cheaper than attorney ($500-$2,000 vs $5,000-$30,000)
✅ Easier than pure DIY
✅ Forms guaranteed to be correct for Texas
✅ Customer support included

Cons:

❌ Not legal advice
❌ Only works for uncontested divorce
❌ You still handle filing and process
❌ No court representation

Best for: Uncontested divorces where you want help with paperwork but don't need an attorney.

Additional Divorce Costs in Fort Worth

Beyond filing fees and attorneys, budget for these potential costs:

Mediation Costs

If you and your spouse use mediation to resolve disputes:

Cost: $100-$300/hour in Fort Worth
Total: $1,500-$5,000 for full mediation
Benefit: Much cheaper than litigation

Expert Witness Fees

For complex cases requiring experts:

Business valuation: $3,000-$10,000
Real estate appraisal: $300-$600
Forensic accountant: $5,000-$20,000
Custody evaluator: $2,000-$10,000
Vocational expert: $2,000-$5,000

Document Production

Subpoenas: $50-$200 each
Deposition costs: $500-$2,000 per deposition
Court reporter: $300-$600 per session

Post-Divorce Costs

QDRO (dividing retirement): $500-$2,500
Refinancing home: $2,000-$5,000
Name change (separate from divorce): $150-$300
Updating estate documents: $500-$2,000

How to Reduce Divorce Costs in Fort Worth

1. Try to Reach Agreement

Uncontested divorces cost 70-80% less than contested.

Work with your spouse to agree on:

Property division
Debt allocation
Child custody and support (if applicable)
Spousal support

Even partial agreement reduces attorney time and costs.

2. Be Organized

Reduce attorney billable hours by:

✅ Gathering financial documents yourself
✅ Creating detailed asset/debt lists
✅ Organizing information before meetings
✅ Responding to requests quickly
✅ Being prepared for every conversation

Unorganized clients can add $2,000-$5,000 in unnecessary attorney time.

3. Communicate Efficiently

Attorneys bill for every email, call, and text:

Batch questions instead of calling repeatedly
Use email for non-urgent matters
Be concise and specific
Avoid venting to your attorney (use a therapist instead)

Inefficient communication can add $1,000-$3,000 in fees.

4. Do What You Can Yourself

Even with an attorney, you can:

Gather your own financial documents
Complete financial affidavits
Attend mediation sessions
Communicate directly with spouse (if safe)

Every task you handle = attorney hours saved.

5. Use Limited Scope Representation

Instead of full representation:

Consultation only: $200-$500 for legal advice
Document review: $500-$1,500 for attorney to review your work
Court appearance only: $1,000-$2,500 for attorney at one hearing

This "unbundled" approach can save $3,000-$10,000 compared to full representation.

6. Consider Mediation

Mediation costs: $1,500-$5,000 total
Litigation costs: $10,000-$50,000+

If you can mediate successfully, you save $5,000-$45,000.

7. Request Fee Waiver

If you cannot afford the $250-$350 filing fee:

File an Application for Waiver of Court Fees
Show income below poverty guidelines
Or show receipt of public assistance (SNAP, TANF, Medicaid)
Texas courts waive fees for qualifying individuals

Fort Worth Divorce Cost Calculator

Use this calculator to estimate your divorce costs:

Step 1: Filing Fee

Base cost: $250-$350

Step 2: Attorney or DIY?

Option A: DIY

Filing fee: $250-$350
Service: $50
Misc: $50
Subtotal: Approximately $250 + $100

Option B: Online Service

Online service: $1,000
Filing fee: $250-$350
Service: $50
Subtotal: Approximately $1,250

Option C: Attorney (Uncontested)

Attorney: $3,000
Filing fee: $250-$350
Subtotal: Approximately $3,250

Option D: Attorney (Contested)

Attorney: $15,000
Filing fee: $250-$350
Experts: $3,000
Subtotal: Approximately $18,250

Step 3: Add Additional Costs

If you have children:

Add $50-$100 for parenting class

If dividing retirement accounts:

Add $500-$2,500 for QDRO

If need appraisals:

Add $300-$10,000 depending on assets

Paying for Your Fort Worth Divorce

Payment Options

1. Pay from savings

Ideal if you have funds available
No interest or fees

2. Payment plans with attorney

Some Fort Worth attorneys offer payment plans
May require larger initial retainer
Ask about this option upfront

3. Credit cards

Quick but expensive due to interest
Only for small amounts if possible

4. Personal loan

Lower interest than credit cards
Fixed payment terms
Check your credit first

5. Borrow from retirement (last resort)

Early withdrawal = 10% penalty + income tax
Consider this only if absolutely necessary

6. Legal aid (if low income)

Free or reduced-cost legal services
Income limits apply
Limited availability in Fort Worth

Fee Waiver for Low Income

If your income is below 125% of federal poverty level OR you receive means-tested benefits, you can request fee waiver for the $250-$350 filing fee.

File: Application for Waiver of Court Fees and Costs with Texas District Court

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does an uncontested divorce cost in Fort Worth?

How much does a contested divorce cost in Fort Worth?

Can I get a divorce for free in Fort Worth?

How much do divorce attorneys cost in Fort Worth?

Divorce attorneys in Fort Worth, Texas charge $200-$600 per hour, with an average of $300-$350/hour. They typically require retainers of $1,500-$15,000 depending on case complexity.

Is online divorce cheaper in Fort Worth?

Yes. Online divorce services cost $500-$2,000 compared to $5,000-$30,000 for attorney representation. However, online divorce only works for uncontested cases where both spouses agree on all terms.

What's the cheapest way to get divorced in Fort Worth?

The cheapest divorce in Fort Worth is DIY (do-it-yourself) for an uncontested case: $250-$350 filing fee + $40-$75 service of process + $20-$50 miscellaneous costs = approximately $250-$200 total.

Does Texas require separation before divorce?

No. Texas allows no-fault divorce without separation.

Can I get financial assistance for divorce in Fort Worth?

Related Resources

Complete Texas Divorce Guide
Fort Worth Divorce Lawyers
Texas Child Custody Laws
Texas Child Support Calculator
File for Divorce in Texas Without a Lawyer

Get Help with Your Fort Worth Divorce

Next steps:

Determine your case type: Uncontested or contested?
Calculate estimated costs: Use the guidelines above
Decide on representation: DIY, online service, or attorney?
Get cost estimates: Consult with Fort Worth divorce attorneys (most offer free consultations)
Explore fee waivers: If low income, apply for court fee waiver

Remember: The most expensive divorce is a contested one. If possible, work with your spouse to reach an agreement and save thousands in legal fees.

Last Updated: February 2026

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How Much Does Divorce Cost in Fort Worth, Texas?

Court Filing Fees in Fort Worth, Texas

Additional Court Fees in Fort Worth

Attorney Costs for Divorce in Fort Worth

Hourly Rates for Fort Worth Divorce Attorneys

Retainer Fees in Fort Worth

Total Attorney Costs by Case Type

What Affects Attorney Costs in Fort Worth?

DIY Divorce Costs in Fort Worth

When DIY Divorce Works in Fort Worth

When to Hire an Attorney in Fort Worth

Online Divorce Services in Fort Worth

Additional Divorce Costs in Fort Worth

Mediation Costs

Expert Witness Fees

Document Production

Post-Divorce Costs

How to Reduce Divorce Costs in Fort Worth

1. Try to Reach Agreement

2. Be Organized

3. Communicate Efficiently

4. Do What You Can Yourself

5. Use Limited Scope Representation

6. Consider Mediation

7. Request Fee Waiver

Fort Worth Divorce Cost Calculator

Step 1: Filing Fee

Step 2: Attorney or DIY?

Step 3: Add Additional Costs

Paying for Your Fort Worth Divorce

Payment Options

Fee Waiver for Low Income

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does an uncontested divorce cost in Fort Worth?

How much does a contested divorce cost in Fort Worth?

Can I get a divorce for free in Fort Worth?

How much do divorce attorneys cost in Fort Worth?

Is online divorce cheaper in Fort Worth?

What's the cheapest way to get divorced in Fort Worth?

Does Texas require separation before divorce?

Can I get financial assistance for divorce in Fort Worth?

Related Resources

Get Help with Your Fort Worth Divorce

Fort Worth Divorce Cost

Other Articles:

Other Articles:

Real Answers. Real Support.

The Ultimate Guide to Getting Started in Your Divorce

10 Things to Know Before Starting Your Divorce

Divorce Process with Divorce.com

Real Answers. Real Support.

The Ultimate Guide to Getting Started in Your Divorce

10 Things to Know Before Starting Your Divorce

Divorce Process with Divorce.com

Upfront pricing at a fraction of the cost of traditional divorce

Divorce doesn’t have to cost as much as a car.

Traditional Divorce

Divorce.com

Upfront pricing at a fraction of the cost of traditional divorce

Divorce doesn’t have to cost as much as a car.

Traditional Divorce

Divorce.com

Our Services

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Our Services

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We've helped with

over 1 million divorces

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Dianna R.

Andelain R.

We've helped with

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How Much Does Divorce Cost in Fort Worth, Texas?

Court Filing Fees in Fort Worth, Texas

The Ultimate Guide
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