Updated May 2026 California
California Divorce Filing Fee (2026)
All court costs for filing divorce in California — including filing fees, service costs, and optional surcharges.
LegalCostCalculator Editorial Team
Data sourced from official government websites · Last reviewed:
$435
Base Filing Fee
$40
Sheriff Service
None
Children Surcharge
$475
Est. Total (with service)
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Base Filing Fee
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How to File → Divorce Court Costs in California
Filing for divorce in California requires paying a base filing fee of $435 to the court. This fee opens your case and is paid by the petitioner (the spouse filing first).
California requires a parenting class when minor children are involved. Fees typically range from $30–$75 and must be completed before the divorce is finalized.
Service of Process in California
After filing, you must legally serve your spouse with the divorce papers:
- Sheriff / constable: $40
- Private process server: $95
California superior courts typically charge around $435 to open a divorce case. Some counties add small local surcharges on top of the base fee.
Uncontested divorce saves thousands
If both spouses agree on property division, custody, and support, an uncontested divorce avoids attorney fees entirely. Court costs are typically the only expense — often under $500 total.Fee waiver available
If you can't afford the $435 filing fee, ask the clerk for an In Forma Pauperis (IFP) application. Most California courts waive fees for filers below 125–200% of the federal poverty level.Frequently Asked Questions — California Divorce
How much does it cost to file for divorce in California?
Filing for divorce in California costs $435 for the base court filing fee. Add $40 for sheriff service of process, bringing the estimated court total to $475. This is the court cost only — attorney fees are additional and vary widely.
What is the divorce filing fee in California?
The California divorce filing fee is $435. This is a one-time fee paid to the court clerk when the petitioner files the initial divorce petition. The fee must be paid before the court will process your case.
How can I get the divorce filing fee waived in California?
To get the divorce filing fee waived in California, file an In Forma Pauperis (IFP) application with the court at the same time as your divorce petition. You must demonstrate that your household income falls below 125–200% of the federal poverty level. If you receive public benefits like Medicaid, SNAP, or SSI, you likely qualify automatically. A judge — not the clerk — must approve the waiver.
Does California require a parenting class for divorce?
Yes — California requires divorcing parents with minor children to complete a court-approved parenting class before the divorce is finalized. The class covers the impact of divorce on children and co-parenting strategies. Fees typically range from $30–$75 and must be paid directly to the approved provider.
How long does a divorce take in California?
An uncontested divorce in California where both spouses agree on all terms can be finalized in as little as 1–3 months, depending on the court's schedule and any mandatory waiting periods. A contested divorce — involving disputes over property, custody, or support — typically takes 6–18 months or longer. After filing, most states require a mandatory waiting period before a judge can sign the final decree.
Can I file for divorce online in California?
Many California courts allow you to download and print divorce forms from their websites, but in-person filing at the courthouse is still required. For uncontested divorces, online services can prepare all the paperwork you then file locally.
Divorce Filing Fees by County in California
All California counties charge the same $435 statewide filing fee — click any county for court address and details.
Los Angeles
$435
San Diego
$435
Orange
$435
Riverside
$435
San Bernardino
$435
Santa Clara
$435
Alameda
$435
Sacramento
$435
Contra Costa
$435
Fresno
$435
Kern
$435
San Francisco
$435
Ventura
$435
San Mateo
$435
San Joaquin
$435
Stanislaus
$435
Sonoma
$435
Tulare
$435
Solano
$435
Santa Barbara
$435
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