How Much Does a Divorce Cost in Vermont?

The cheapest possible divorce in Vermont costs $90 in court fees. A fully contested case with attorneys can exceed $12,000. The difference comes down to three things: how you file, whether you agree, and whether you hire a lawyer.

Here's what every cost line actually looks like.

Court Filing Fees

Vermont charges different rates depending on whether spouses agree on terms before filing:

The $205 savings from filing stipulated versus contested is Vermont's strongest financial incentive for spouses to agree on terms before walking into the courthouse.

If you start as contested and later reach a full agreement, the court can convert your case to stipulated — but you don't get a refund on the original $295 fee.

Service of Process Costs

After filing, you must formally deliver papers to your spouse. Costs depend on the method:

For cases with children, the court clerk handles the service process, though the plaintiff still pays the costs.

Attorney and Mediation Costs

Family lawyers in Vermont charge an average hourly rate of around $285. Total attorney costs vary dramatically by case complexity:

• Uncontested with attorney review: $1,000–$3,000 (limited-scope representation to review your stipulation)
• Contested without children: Average around $9,000
• Contested with children: Average around $12,435
• Private mediation: $150–$350 per hour (typically 3–6 sessions)

Filing without an attorney eliminates the largest cost category entirely. Vermont law explicitly allows self-represented litigants in family court, and the court's guided interview tool (VTCourtForms) helps prepare the paperwork.

Additional Costs to Budget For

Fee Waivers for Low-Income Filers

If your household income is at or below 125% of the federal poverty guidelines, you can request a full waiver of filing and service fees using Form 600-00228 (Application to Waive Fees and Service Costs).

The court reviews your application and may grant a full or partial waiver. This covers the filing fee, service costs, and any other court-assessed charges — but not private expenses like mediation or attorney consultations.

What Drives the Total Cost

The total cost of a Vermont divorce falls along a spectrum:

• $90–$200: Stipulated filing, self-represented, Acceptance of Service, no children
• $200–$500: Stipulated with children (COPE class, certified mail service)
• $1,500–$4,000: Stipulated with limited attorney review
• $9,000–$15,000+: Fully contested with attorneys

The biggest cost savings come from reaching agreement before filing (drops the fee from $295 to $90), handling service through direct acceptance ($0 versus $75+), and representing yourself rather than hiring an attorney.

For a complete walkthrough of every fee, form, and decision point — with worksheets to organize your finances before filing — see the Vermont Divorce Filing Process Guide.

See more Vermont guides →