How Much Does Divorce Cost in Portland, OR (2025 Guide)

Divorce costs in Portland reflect how cooperative or contested your case becomes. If both parties agree on property, support, and parenting terms, you might finish for under $2,000. When major disputes arise, the cost can climb to $10,000–$20,000+ or higher. This guide breaks down the Portland divorce filing fee, typical attorney and mediation costs, and how asset division and custody battles affect your total.

Average Divorce Costs in Portland

According to Oregon sources, uncontested divorces may cost $1,500–$3,000 in many cases, while contested ones range $7,000–$15,000 or more. Divorce in Oregon

Portland Divorce Filing Fee

In Oregon (including Portland/Multnomah County), filing a divorce petition costs about $301 in most counties. Oregon Law Help
You may also face:

• Service of process (sheriff or private server) ~$35–$80

• Additional motion or filing fees

• Certified copies or document fees

If you cannot afford the filing fee, you can apply for a fee waiver in Oregon. Oregon Law Help

Portland Divorce Attorney Cost

Attorney costs in the Portland area vary widely based on case complexity and firm size.

• Hourly rates typically $250–$400+ per hour in the region. Levine Law Center

• Retainers for more involved cases may run several thousand dollars upfront.

• Uncontested or flat-fee arrangements may exist for simpler divorces.

High-conflict cases where major assets or custody are at stake often escalate quickly in cost.

Portland Uncontested Divorce Cost

When spouses agree on all material issues (property, support, custody), you can pursue an uncontested divorce, which is the most cost-effective path.
Estimated total: $500 – $2,000+, including filing and service fees (assuming minimal attorney involvement).
Timeline can be as short as a few months in Oregon if paperwork is well-handled.

Portland Divorce Mediation Cost

Mediation offers a cooperative alternative to full litigation.
Estimated mediation costs:

• Hourly mediator: ~$200–$350

• Half-day session: ~$800–$1,200

• Full-day session: ~$1,500–$2,500

Typical total for mediation-oriented divorce: $2,000–$6,000, depending on how many sessions and complexity of issues.

Portland Contested Divorce Cost

When major disputes exist (real estate, business interests, retirement accounts, child custody), costs escalate significantly.
Estimated cost range: $10,000–$20,000+ (and could go higher depending on complexity). Divorce in Oregon
Key cost drivers:

• Discovery and depositions

• Expert valuations (business, real estate, forensic accounting)

• Custody evaluations

• Multiple court hearings or trial days

• Extended timeline

Portland Asset Division Cost

In Oregon, marital assets and debts are subject to equitable distribution. Some costs to consider:

• Real-estate appraisals: ~$400–$900 each

• Business valuations: $5,000–$10,000+

• Retirement account division (QDRO or equivalent)

• Forensic accountant: $150–$325/hour

Agreeing early on valuations and using fewer experts helps manage costs.

Portland Custody Dispute Cost

Child custody and parenting plan disputes can significantly increase costs. Potential additional expenses:

• Custody evaluator or guardian ad litem: ~$3,000–$6,000+

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

• Therapy/co-parenting counseling: variable

• Extra mediation or hearings: $500–$1,000+ each

Divorce.com vs. Traditional Divorce in Portland

Typical Portland Divorce Budget

FAQs

Can I file for divorce in Portland without a lawyer?
Yes. Oregon allows self-representation. Free court forms and facilitators exist. Oregon Law Help
However, in complex cases you may want legal advice.

Is there a waiting period in Oregon?
No long separation waiting period. You may file once residency requirements are met.

What is the cheapest way to get divorced in Portland?
A mutually agreed online or DIY filing with minimal attorney input. If only the filing fee is incurred and you handle service and documents, costs stay very low.

Where do I file for divorce in Portland?
At the relevant county circuit court (e.g., Multnomah County) where you or your spouse lives.

The Bottom Line

The cost of divorce in Portland is largely driven by agreement vs. dispute. When spouses cooperate and issues are minimal, the cost can remain under $2,000. When major conflicts arise—especially involving assets or custody—costs quickly escalate to $10,000–$20,000+.

With proper planning, early agreement, and possibly online/DYI options, you can significantly reduce both cost and stress.