How much does a divorce cost in Michigan?
The short answer: it depends on how much you and your spouse already agree on. Here’s what to expect, and how to keep it on the low end.
- 100% free consultation, no obligation
- Flat-rate pricing available for uncontested divorces
- Local Southgate office serving Wayne County & Downriver
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Michigan divorce cost by case type
Attorney fees only. Court filing fees, mediators, and expert witnesses are separate.
| Type of divorce | Typical attorney fees |
|---|---|
| UncontestedFlat rateYou agree on property, debt, and kids | $1,000 – $3,000 |
| Moderately contestedA few issues need negotiating | $5,000 – $15,000 |
| Highly contestedCustody fights, complex assets | $15,000 – $30,000+ |
| High-net-worth / business ownerValuations, experts, hidden assets | $30,000 – $100,000+ |
Michigan filing fee: about $150–$175 depending on county, plus smaller summons and Friend of the Court fees if you have minor children.
What drives the price up
The single biggest factor is whether your divorce is contested. Every disagreement adds attorney time.
Custody disputes
Disagreements over parenting time are the most common reason costs climb.
Property & debt
Houses, retirement accounts, and shared debt take time to value and divide.
Spousal support
Contested alimony often requires financial discovery and negotiation.
How to keep your divorce affordable
Agree early
Settle the parenting schedule, the house, and the debt split before court gets involved.
Come organized
Bring account statements, property records, and a list of assets and debts.
Ask about flat rates
If you’re uncontested, a flat fee means no surprise hourly bills.
Your attorney
Derek Jacques
Michigan-licensed family law attorney serving Wayne and Monroe Counties. Metro Detroit native, J.D. from the University of Toledo College of Law, and named a Michigan Rising Star by Super Lawyers.
Common questions
What’s the cheapest way to get divorced in Michigan?
An uncontested divorce. If you and your spouse agree on the major issues, a flat-rate uncontested divorce typically costs $1,000–$3,000 in attorney fees, plus the court filing fee.
How much is the filing fee?
About $150–$175 depending on the county, with small additional fees for the summons and, if you have minor children, the Friend of the Court.
How long does a Michigan divorce take?
At least 60 days without minor children, and at least 6 months with minor children. Contested cases usually take longer.
Does mediation save money?
Usually, yes. Resolving disputes in mediation rather than litigating them in court is one of the most effective ways to reduce the total cost.
Is the consultation really free?
Yes. Your consultation is 100% free with no obligation. We’ll give you a realistic estimate for your situation.
Find out what your divorce will cost
Free, confidential consultation with a Michigan divorce attorney. No obligation.
Mitten Law · 13615 Northline Rd., Southgate, MI 48195 · (734) 765-9382
Serving Wyandotte, Taylor, Southgate, Trenton, Riverview, Allen Park, Grosse Ile, Flat Rock & Wayne County.
Attorney advertising. Cost ranges are general estimates, not a guarantee. Every case is different. This page is not legal advice.
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