North Carolina costs turn on issues to resolve, conflict level, and how quickly you exchange financial information. County scheduling, mandatory mediation for certain claims, and the 12-month separation requirement all affect timing and expense.
Expect a filing fee, plus service of process, copies, and certified judgments. If you use professionals, you may see mediation costs (including mandatory custody mediation in many counties), limited-scope legal review, document preparation, and financial experts for valuation or tax planning.
Costs rise with complex property (business ownership, separate-property tracing, retirement division), high-conflict parenting, and late/incomplete disclosures. Costs fall when parties organize pay, bank, credit, and tax records, agree on valuation dates (often tied to date of separation), collaborate on a single settlement draft, and start with mediation.
Lead with mediation to resolve most issues, then have a lawyer review your agreement. Use attorneys strategically for coaching and targeted negotiations. Address date-of-separation valuations and a refinance/buyout timeline for real estate to avoid repeat work.
Hello Divorce can prepare all your North Carolina divorce forms for you with our divorce plans.
Can I get a filing fee waiver in North Carolina?
Yes. You can request an in forma pauperis waiver if paying is a hardship.
Does filing first raise costs?
Not usually. Costs track conflict, organization, and the speed of disclosures and settlement.
Do I have to appear in person?
Many uncontested divorces finish on paperwork or brief hearings; remote options may be available depending on the county and judge.