Utah Divorce Filing Fee and Custody Costs: Complete Breakdown

The Utah District Court filing fee for a divorce is $350. But that's just the starting cost. By the time you add mandatory courses, service of process, and mediation, a self-represented parent in a basic contested case typically spends $600 to $1,200 total — still far less than retaining an attorney, but more than most people budget for when they file.

Here's every cost you'll encounter and which ones are waivable.

Fixed Court Costs

The $350 filing fee is paid once, at the time the petition is submitted to the District Court Clerk. If both parents agree on all terms (uncontested divorce), the respondent doesn't need to file a counterclaim and pays nothing.

Mandatory Course Costs

Both parents with minor children must complete two courses before the court will finalize the divorce or hear temporary order motions:

These costs apply to each parent individually. For both parents combined, mandatory course costs total $100 to $130.

Service of Process

The respondent must be formally served with the petition and summons. Costs vary by method:

If the other parent is cooperative, having them sign an Acceptance of Service eliminates the cost entirely. If they're avoiding service, costs can increase, and you may eventually need to request service by publication (which involves newspaper ad fees).

Mediation Costs

Mediation is mandatory in contested cases before the court schedules a trial:

A typical mediation session runs 2-4 hours. Court-annexed mediation for a 3-hour session costs about $150 per parent. Private mediation for the same duration could run $225 to $525 per parent.

Optional Professional Costs

These apply only in contested or high-conflict cases:

Custody evaluations are ordered by the court in highly contested cases and are among the most expensive elements. They involve home visits, psychological testing, interviews with both parents and the child, and a comprehensive written report with custody recommendations.

Fee Waivers

If your income falls below certain thresholds, you can file a Fee Waiver Motion (Form 1102FA) with your initial petition. If approved, the court waives:

• The $350 filing fee
• Process server costs
• Potentially the mandatory course fees (ask the clerk)

Fee waivers don't cover private mediation, attorney fees, or custody evaluations.

Total Cost Estimates

For a complete budget planner, filing timeline, and guidance on which costs are avoidable, the Utah Child Custody & Parenting Plan Guide includes a cost summary worksheet and fee waiver instructions.

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