Cost of Divorce in Massachusetts
Massachusetts costs turn on how many issues you must resolve, your level of conflict, and how quickly you exchange financial information. County Probate and Family Court scheduling and required Parent Education for cases with children can also affect the timeline.
Typical Costs
Expect a court filing fee, plus costs for sheriff/constable service, copies, and certified judgments. If you use professionals, you may see fees for mediation, limited-scope legal review, document preparation, and financial experts for valuation, tracing, or tax planning. Parents generally pay for a Parent Education Program required by the court.
What Drives Cost Up or Down
Costs increase with complex property (business interests, retirement division, separate-property claims), high-conflict parenting, and late or incomplete disclosures that cause continuances. Costs decrease when parties exchange clean, labeled statements and tax returns early, agree on valuation dates, work from a single shared settlement draft, and begin with mediation to narrow issues.
Ways to Save
Begin with mediation and then have a lawyer review the final agreement. Use attorneys strategically for coaching and quality checks. If real estate is involved, specify an appraisal method and refinance/buyout timeline in your agreement to avoid duplicate work and hearings. Keep financial statements consistent with the court’s short/long form requirements to prevent re-filings.
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FAQs
Can I get a filing fee waiver in Massachusetts?
Yes. You can request an indigency waiver if paying would be a hardship by submitting financial information to the court.
Does filing first make divorce more expensive?
Not usually. Cost depends more on conflict, organization, and how quickly you exchange information and settle.
Will I have to appear in person?
Many uncontested cases finalize on paperwork or brief hearings; remote appearances may be available depending on the judge and county.
