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

In Long Beach (LA County), divorce costs depend on asset complexity, custody issues, and whether spouses settle early or litigate. Uncontested cases may stay under $2,500, while contested divorces often exceed $20,000–$40,000+.

Average Long Beach Divorce Costs

Long Beach Divorce Filing Fee

California has a statewide filing fee in the mid-$400s.

Additional costs may include:

• Service of process

• Certified decree copies

• Mandatory parenting class (if minor children are involved)

• Possible motion filings

Long Beach Divorce Attorney Cost

LA County and coastal California pricing trends apply:

• Hourly rates: ~$350–$600+/hour

• Retainers: $5,000–$15,000+ for contested cases

• Uncontested attorney flat fees: ~$1,000–$3,000

Long Beach Uncontested Divorce Cost

If spouses agree on everything:

• Minimal attorney review

• No discovery

• No expert valuations

• Total cost: $750–$2,500 + filing fee

Long Beach Divorce Mediation Cost

Long Beach mediation tends to cost more than inland counties:

• $300–$500/hour

• Most cases require 2–4 sessions

• Total: $3,000–$7,500

Long Beach Contested Divorce Cost

Litigation is the most expensive path:

• Typical total: $15,000–$40,000+

• High-end cases (business ownership, forensic accounting, relocations) exceed $75,000+

Drivers include:

• Depositions

• Multiple hearings

• Competing experts

• Custody evaluations

• Business/real estate valuations

Long Beach Asset Division Cost

California is community property — a 50/50 split unless otherwise negotiated.

Added expenses:

• Home appraisal: $600–$1,500

• Forensic accounting: $300–$600/hr

• Business valuation: $10,000–$30,000+

• QDRO: $300–$900

  
  

Long Beach Custody Dispute Cost

Custody battles are common cost escalators:

• Family Court Services mediation required

• Private evaluators: $4,000–$10,000+

• Minor’s counsel: varies

• Additional hearings increase attorney hours

  
  

Divorce.com vs Traditional Divorce (Long Beach)

Typical Long Beach Divorce Budget

The Bottom Line

Long Beach divorces become expensive quickly when conflict rises. Settling early, using mediation, and limiting expert involvement can prevent five-figure bills.