Cost is one of the first questions people ask about divorce — and one of the hardest to get a straight answer to. Litigation costs are notoriously open-ended. Mediation is usually far more predictable, and in our practice you can see an estimate as soon as you send your request — before you ever speak with us.
Introductory call: $175 for 45 minutes. Mediation: from $5,000.
Every engagement begins with a 45-minute introductory call for $175. After that, the minimum fee for divorce mediation is $5,000, and it goes higher depending on the complexity of your divorce — for example, children, the length of the marriage, and the assets involved.
Request mediation and we’ll confirm your fee after your introductory call. You can also see an estimate right after sending your request.
Request MediationWhat affects the cost of mediation
Our estimates are based on the same factors that drive the work involved:
- The service you need — full mediation, or a specific piece such as a parenting plan or settlement drafting
- Minor and college-age children — parenting plans, schedules, and support take time to work through
- Length of the marriage — longer marriages usually involve more property, more history, and more questions about separate vs. community assets
- Combined assets and net worth — larger estates tend to involve businesses, equity compensation, and valuation questions
Outside costs are separate: court filing fees, any appraisers or valuation experts, and any attorneys or financial advisers each spouse chooses to hire.
Mediation vs. litigation cost
In a litigated divorce, each spouse typically pays their own attorney by the hour, plus discovery, experts, and court time. Disputes over a business or equity compensation can multiply those costs. In mediation, the couple shares one neutral mediator, uses joint experts where possible, and controls the pace. Mediation is typically far less expensive, though every case is different. See divorce mediation vs. litigation.
Ways to keep costs down
- Gather your financial documents before the first session
- Agree on a single neutral expert for valuations where you can
- Use attorneys for focused advice and review rather than for every step
- Come to sessions prepared with the questions that matter most to you
This page is general information, not legal, tax, or financial advice. Crossroads Neutral, LLC is not a law firm. Laws change and every situation is different — please consult a licensed attorney about your rights and obligations.
