If you’re considering ending your marriage, one of the first questions that probably comes to mind is: “What’s the cost of divorce in San Diego?”
And the honest answer? It depends. The cost can vary dramatically depending on how you approach your divorce, and who you choose to help you through it.
Let’s break down the factors that influence divorce costs in San Diego, and how you can make financially smart decisions during this emotionally challenging time.
What Does Divorce Typically Cost in San Diego?
A traditional litigated divorce in San Diego can easily run $15,000 to $30,000 or more per person, especially if the case is contested or drags on for months. Here’s what contributes to that total:
- Hourly attorney fees (often $350–$550/hour in San Diego)
- Court filings, document service, and expert witness fees
- Child custody evaluations or forensic accounting (if needed)
- Multiple court appearances and formal discovery
The more conflict, the more expensive it becomes. Even minor disagreements over child support, property division, or spousal maintenance can quickly add thousands to your legal bill.
What About Low-Conflict or Amicable Divorces?
If you and your spouse agree on most of the major decisions, or are willing to work toward resolution together, mediation can drastically reduce your costs.
At West Coast Family Mediation, our flat-fee divorce mediation packages are designed to give couples in San Diego an affordable, efficient, and less stressful way to divorce.
Some of the benefits include:
- Transparent flat fees (no surprises or billing by the minute)
- Typically no court appearances (or very very few!)
- Faster timelines, saving you time and money
- Legal guidance and document preparation included
How Much Does Divorce Mediation Cost in San Diego?
Mediation is typically 70–90% more affordable than a contested court battle. At our office, full-service divorce mediation packages start at just a few thousand dollars and cover everything from financial agreements and parenting plans to court-ready documentation. No surprises.
Our goal is to help you protect your assets, reduce conflict, and avoid unnecessary costs, while still receiving guidance from experienced divorce attorneys
What Drives Up the Cost of Divorce?
No matter which path you choose, the following can increase your divorce expenses:
- Lack of communication or trust
When talking feels impossible, or every conversation turns into conflict, mediation creates a structured space where both parties are heard and guided toward resolution. - Hidden assets or complicated financial situations
If finances are unclear or you’re worried something’s being left out, mediation brings transparency and expert support to ensure full financial disclosure and fair division. - Disagreements over child custody or support
Even the most emotional parenting disputes can be resolved more peacefully. Mediation helps you prioritize your children’s well-being while working through the tough decisions. - Frequent court motions or delays
Court battles are slow, expensive, and draining. Mediation avoids repeated filings and long waits, keeping your case moving forward without the courtroom backlog.
If you’re already facing emotional stress, adding high legal costs on top can feel overwhelming. That’s why it’s so important to choose a divorce process that prioritizes efficiency and cooperation.
San Diego Divorce Doesn’t Have to Break the Bank
Divorce is hard enough (financially and emotionally). But it doesn’t have to be destructive. With the right guidance, you can move through this transition with clarity, respect, and stability.
If you’re researching the cost of divorce in San Diego, we invite you to reach out. We’ll walk you through your options and help you determine whether mediation might be a better (and more affordable) fit for your family.
Want to Talk Numbers?
We offer consultations where we can break down exactly what you can expect to spend, and how to avoid unnecessary legal expenses.
Schedule your FREE consultation today here and take the first step toward a more financially sound divorce.