The total cost for an uncontested divorce in New York City typically ranges from $1,345 to $2,160, including court filing fees and attorney representation. This is significantly less expensive than contested divorces, which can cost $15,000 to $30,000 or more. Understanding the exact breakdown of costs helps couples budget appropriately for their uncontested divorce proceedings.

Complete Cost Breakdown for NYC Uncontested Divorce

Court Filing Fees: The Non-Negotiable Costs

Therefore, Every uncontested divorce in NYC requires payment of specific court fees totaling $430. The Supreme Court filing fee of $210 initiates your case, while the $125 index number assigns your case a unique identifier in the court system. The Request for Judicial Intervention (RJI) fee of $95 places your case on the court’s calendar for final review.

Second, These fees are payable to the New York State Supreme Court and cannot be waived except in cases of documented financial hardship. Fee waivers require submitting a detailed affidavit proving inability to pay, including documentation of income, assets, and expenses.

Attorney Fees for Uncontested Divorce

Therefore, While technically optional, attorney representation for uncontested divorce typically costs between $750 and $1,500 in NYC. This investment ensures proper document preparation, accurate filing procedures, and compliance with all legal requirements. Most attorneys offer flat-fee arrangements for uncontested cases, providing cost certainty from the beginning.

Attorney fees often include document preparation, court filing, negotiation assistance, and representation through the final judgment. Many firms, including ours, offer payment plans that allow couples to spread costs over 2-3 months, making legal representation more accessible.

Cost Comparison: Uncontested vs. Contested Divorce

• Uncontested Divorce: $1,345-$2,160 total
• Contested Divorce: $15,000-$30,000+ (average)
• High-Conflict Contested: $50,000-$100,000+ (with trials)
• Mediated Divorce: $3,000-$7,000 (middle ground)

The dramatic cost difference stems from attorney hours required. Uncontested cases typically require 5-10 attorney hours, while contested divorces can involve 100+ hours of legal work including discovery, motions, negotiations, and potential trial preparation.

Hidden Costs to Watch For

Some expenses aren’t immediately apparent when budgeting for divorce. Process server fees ($75-$150) apply unless your spouse signs a waiver of service. If you need certified copies of your divorce decree for legal purposes, each copy costs $10-$25 from the court clerk’s office.

Name change proceedings add $65 to your total if reverting to a maiden name. Some couples require property deed transfers ($200-$400) or QDRO preparation for retirement account division ($500-$1,500), though these are separate from the basic divorce costs.

Payment Plan Options Available

Many NYC divorce attorneys offer flexible payment arrangements for uncontested cases. Common options include splitting fees into two or three monthly payments, with initial retainers as low as $500. Some firms accept credit cards, allowing couples to manage cash flow while proceeding with their divorce.

Court fees must be paid upfront and cannot be financed. However, qualifying individuals may request fee waivers through the court’s Poor Person Relief program, eliminating the $430 in mandatory court costs.

Money-Saving Tips for Your Uncontested Divorce

• Complete agreements before filing to avoid revision costs
• Use one attorney for document preparation (both parties benefit)
• Gather documents early to reduce attorney preparation time
• File jointly to eliminate process server fees
• Request electronic copies instead of certified paper copies when possible
• Avoid court appearances by ensuring complete, accurate paperwork

Take Action on Your Affordable Divorce Today

Ready to start your affordable uncontested divorce in NYC? Our flat-fee representation starts at just $750, with flexible payment plans available. We handle all document preparation and court filing, ensuring your divorce proceeds smoothly and cost-effectively. Call (332) 296-8200 today for a free consultation about your uncontested divorce costs and payment options. With transparent pricing and no hidden fees, you’ll know exactly what your divorce will cost from day one.

Don’t let cost concerns delay your fresh start. Our experienced NYC divorce attorneys make uncontested divorce affordable for everyone, with payment plans and flat-fee arrangements that fit your budget.