Understand the financial breakdown of Contested Divorce within Massachusetts's jurisdiction. Our 2025 data covers mandatory court fees and localized attorney pricing.
Planning for Contested Divorce in Massachusetts requires a clear understanding of both mandatory government fees and discretionary service costs. In 2025, individuals pursuing this legal action typically encounter an average total investment of $15,939.
Compared to the United States national average of $5,000, legal costs in Massachusetts are219% higher than the average.
The initial barrier to entry in the Massachusetts court system begins with the mandatory filing fees. For Contested Divorce, these non-refundable charges range between $373 and $455 depending on the specific county and local surcharges.
Based on verified jurisdictional data
Avg. Attorney Rate
$345/hour
Estimated Total
Disclaimer: This is a rough estimate based on Massachusetts averages. Actual costs vary by county and specific circumstances.
Massachusetts State Law Overview
12 months in Massachusetts (or cause arose in state)
120 days for 1A, 6 months for 1B from filing
Massachusetts is an equitable distribution state. The state has unique provisions for alimony reform with specific duration limits. Massachusetts also requires financial statements and has detailed rules for health insurance continuation.
The costs provided are estimates based on historical data and local fee structures. Legal fees vary by complexity and attorney experience. This site does not provide legal advice, and no attorney-client relationship is formed by using this tool.
Prepare and file the petition with the local Massachusetts court.
Exchange of information and legal evidence between parties.
Mandatory or voluntary negotiation to reach an agreement.
Final court hearing and issuance of legal decree.
The cost of Contested Divorce in Massachusetts can be significantly reduced by following these strategic steps:
Compare live 2025 jurisdictional rates from neighboring states.
Localized costs can vary by county and municipal jurisdiction. Browse Contested Divorce data for major cities across Massachusetts:
Reviewed by Research Team
Last Verified: 2025