What Divorce Costs in Texas

Texas divorce costs are generally lower than California or New York but can still be substantial. Filing fees are $300-$350 depending on the county. Attorney rates vary significantly by region — Houston, Dallas, and Austin command higher rates than smaller markets. Simple uncontested divorces can be completed for $1,500-$3,500 total including filing fees and attorney costs. Contested divorces that settle before trial typically run $10,000-$35,000. Contested divorces through trial can cost $30,000-$100,000+ per side. Texas does not require mandatory financial disclosures like California, which can reduce costs in uncontested cases but can also lead to discovery disputes in contested matters.

**Houston (Harris County):** $250-$500/hour. Complex cases involving business valuations or custody disputes may see rates of $500-$700/hour for senior partners. **Dallas-Fort Worth:** $275-$550/hour for experienced family law attorneys. **Austin:** $250-$500/hour. **San Antonio:** $200-$400/hour. **El Paso, Corpus Christi, and other mid-size cities:** $175-$350/hour. **Rural Texas:** $150-$275/hour. Retainers typically range from $2,500 (simple matters) to $15,000+ (contested custody or high-asset cases).

**Process server:** $75-$150 for personal service. **Mediator fees:** $200-$400/hour. Mediation is required in many Texas counties before trial. A half-day mediation typically costs $1,500-$3,000 total (split between parties). **Child custody evaluator:** $3,000-$15,000 for a custody evaluation or social study. **Business valuations:** $5,000-$30,000 depending on business complexity. **Real estate appraisals:** $300-$600 per property. **Retirement account analysis (QDRO):** $500-$1,500.