The cost of divorce in Philadelphia depends on whether your case is straightforward or contested. Some couples finalize their divorce for a few hundred dollars, while others spend tens of thousands resolving property, custody, and support issues. This guide breaks down the Philadelphia divorce filing fee, average attorney and mediation costs, and how asset division and custody disputes affect total expenses. You’ll also learn how Divorce.com offers a faster, more affordable option for Pennsylvania couples.

Average Divorce Costs in Philadelphia

Philadelphia Divorce Filing Fee

When filing for a Complaint in Divorce in the Philadelphia Court of Common Pleas, expect a filing fee of about $333–$350 as of 2025.

• Service of process: $40–$80 depending on method.

• Respondent’s filing or counterclaim: $100–$150 if applicable.
  You may request a fee waiver (In Forma Pauperis) if you meet income requirements.

Tip: Always verify with the court clerk for the latest filing fee schedule.

Philadelphia Divorce Attorney Cost

Attorney fees vary widely based on experience and complexity:

• Hourly rate: typically $250–$450/hour.

• Retainer: commonly $3,000–$7,500 for contested cases.

• Flat fee: available for uncontested divorces ($800–$2,000).

Ways to lower legal costs

• Prepare financial records and parenting plans before meeting your lawyer.

• Choose limited representation for specific tasks.

• Use Divorce.com’s online service for agreed cases to avoid hourly billing.

Philadelphia Uncontested Divorce Cost

An uncontested divorce—called a no-fault mutual consent divorce under Pennsylvania law—requires both spouses to agree to the divorce and all major terms.

Typical Philadelphia uncontested divorce cost:

• $500–$2,000 including filing and service.

• Timeline: about 90 days after filing and serving papers.

Divorce.com advantage:
Our online platform guides you through Pennsylvania-specific forms, prepares filings automatically, and offers optional attorney review—making it the fastest, most affordable way to finalize your divorce in the city.

Philadelphia Divorce Mediation Cost

Mediation is often the best middle ground between DIY and litigation.
Typical Philadelphia divorce mediation cost:

• $200–$350/hour for a private mediator.

• Half-day sessions: $600–$1,000 per person.

• Full-day sessions: $1,200–$2,000 per person.

Most couples complete mediation in two to four sessions, bringing total cost to $2,000–$6,000. Mediation works especially well for couples who need help resolving a few issues—like property division or parenting time—but want to avoid trial.

Philadelphia Contested Divorce Cost

When spouses can’t agree, litigation drives costs up.
A Philadelphia contested divorce can cost $12,000–$30,000+, depending on:

• The number of hearings or motions

• Attorney hours billed

• Discovery and depositions

• Expert witnesses or forensic accountants

High-conflict custody or property disputes can push totals even higher. Complex cases often last 6–18 months or longer.

Philadelphia Asset Division Cost

Pennsylvania is an equitable distribution state, meaning marital property is divided fairly—not necessarily 50/50.

Typical Philadelphia asset division costs:

• Home or real estate appraisal: $400–$1,200 each

• Business valuation: $5,000–$10,000+

• Retirement division (QDRO): $300–$600 per plan

• Forensic accountant: $150–$350/hour

Couples who agree on property values or use a single neutral appraiser can save thousands.

Philadelphia Custody Dispute Cost

Child custody issues can significantly increase divorce costs.
Expect the following possible expenses:

• Custody evaluator or guardian ad litem: $2,000–$5,000+

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

• Therapist or family counselor: variable per hour

• Additional mediation sessions: $500–$1,000 each

Judges in Philadelphia strongly encourage mediation before trial, which helps reduce both stress and expense.

Divorce.com vs. Traditional Divorce in Philadelphia

Typical Philadelphia Divorce Budget

FAQs

Can I file for divorce in Philadelphia without a lawyer?
Yes. You can file on your own, and Divorce.com provides guided Pennsylvania-specific forms to make the process easier.

How long does a divorce take in Pennsylvania?
Mutual-consent divorces can finalize in as little as 90 days after filing; contested cases may take a year or longer.

What is the cheapest way to get divorced in Philadelphia?
An uncontested online divorce through Divorce.com typically costs under $1,000 total—including court fees.

Do I have to attend court?
Uncontested divorces are usually finalized by mail or with minimal court appearance.

Is mediation required?
Not always, but Philadelphia judges strongly recommend it before setting a trial date, especially in custody cases.

The Bottom Line

The average cost of divorce in Philadelphia depends on how much you and your spouse can agree on. Cooperative couples often spend under $2,000, while litigated cases can exceed $30,000.

With Divorce.com, Philadelphia residents can file online, access affordable legal help, and complete their divorce faster—without the unpredictable costs of traditional law firms.

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