Divorce, Custody, and Support:
Know Your Rights Before You Act

You are not legally required to hire a lawyer, but an attorney can help protect your rights — especially when children, property, or support are involved. Uncontested divorces with no shared assets may be manageable without one, but contested cases almost always benefit from legal representation.

Divorce costs vary widely depending on your state, whether the case is contested, and whether you use mediation or go to trial. Filing fees alone range from $100 to $450. The total cost of a contested divorce with attorneys can range from $15,000 to $30,000 or more. Use our divorce cost estimator for a personalized breakdown.

An uncontested divorce can be finalized in as little as 30 to 90 days in some states. Contested divorces often take 6 to 18 months, depending on the complexity of issues like custody, property division, and support.

Many states now favor shared or equal custody arrangements when both parents are fit. Courts consider factors like each parent's involvement, proximity, and the child's best interests. Learn more in our guide to 50/50 custody.

Most states use one of two models: the income shares model (based on both parents' income) or the percentage of income model (based on the non-custodial parent's income). Custody time, healthcare costs, and childcare expenses are also factored in. Try our child support calculator.

Legal custody gives a parent the right to make major decisions about the child's education, healthcare, and religion. Physical custody determines where the child lives. Courts can award both types jointly or solely to one parent.

Not necessarily. Community property states (like California and Texas) generally divide marital assets equally, while equitable distribution states divide assets fairly but not always equally. Factors like marriage length, earning capacity, and contributions are considered.

Yes. You can request a modification if there has been a significant change in circumstances — such as a job loss, relocation, or change in the child's needs. The court must approve any modification to an existing order.