The cost of a divorce in Alberta can vary greatly depending on the complexity of your situation. A simple, uncontested divorce might cost $1,750–$2,000, while a high-conflict or trial-based divorce can climb into the tens of thousands. The more you and your former partner can cooperate, the more affordable and efficient the Divorce process will be.
The Honest Answer: It Depends
“How much will my divorce cost?” is one of the most common questions we get, and the answer is, as you might expect, “it depends.”
If you are simply filing for divorce with no kids, no property, no support payments, and you are both in agreement, the cost is relatively low. In these basic cases, you might pay around $1,750 to $2,000 to complete the process.
What Makes Divorce More Expensive?
The cost of divorce rises as the complexity of the case increases. Here are four major factors that drive up legal fees:
- Parenting disputes (custody, parenting time, decision-making)
- Child support or spousal support disagreements
- Division of property and debt
- Lack of cooperation between spouses
If these issues haven’t been resolved before hiring a lawyer, your case may require negotiation, Mediation, or even court. A divorce involving all these elements can easily rise into the thousands, or even tens of thousands of dollars, especially if court appearances are involved.
Court vs. Collaborative Divorce vs. Mediation
A one-day trial can cost between $7,500 and $10,000 per side, including preparation time but there are untold costs even before getting to trial. If your case goes to multiple hearings or trial days, those costs will quickly add up.
By contrast, Collaborative Divorce or Mediation offer more affordable, cooperative options. You will each typically spend about $7,500 in a Collaborative Divorce that cost includes working through parenting, support, and property division in a structured and respectful environment. Mediation can cost even less, depending on how quickly issues are resolved, and the costs are shared between you.
Who Controls the Cost?
It is a common misconception that lawyers drive the cost of divorce. In truth, clients control the cost more than they realize.
If you and your spouse are willing to cooperate, focus on problem-solving, and avoid unnecessary battles, your costs can stay manageable. But if one or both parties are combative, refuse to compromise, or escalate every disagreement to court, legal fees increase sometimes dramatically.
As we often say, you can spend your money sending your kids to university… or sending your lawyer’s kids instead.
The Role of Divorce Coaches
In Collaborative Divorce, when emotions are getting in the way of progress, divorce coaches can help you to stay focused on what really matters. This allows your lawyers to concentrate on the legal issues, while the coaches help manage communication and emotional roadblocks.
It’s a smart way to reduce conflict and cost at the same time.
Need help understanding your divorce options and potential costs? Call Pierre Boileau today at 780‑482‑2888.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Is it cheaper if we already agree on everything?
Yes. If there are no disputes over children, property, or support, a basic divorce can be processed for around $1,750 to $2,000.
Q2: How can I keep my legal fees down?
Be prepared, communicate respectfully, and avoid turning every disagreement into a battle. Choosing Mediation or Collaborative Divorce over court also reduces costs.
Q3: Can I switch from litigation to Collaboration or Mediation?
Yes. Even if things started off tense, it is never too late to shift to a cooperative approach and save time, money, and stress.
Pierre Boileau
Over almost 35 years of practice Pierre Boileau, K.C. has gained experience as a Mediator, Collaborative Family Lawyer, Litigator and now as an Arbitrator. Pierre’s extensive experience has shown him that client satisfaction is maximized when clients have control over their own future. This can best be achieved through interest based negotiation. Only as a last resort, should litigation be considered. When necessary, Pierre relies upon his vast court experience and training.
Pierre remains committed to continuing to practice at a high level with particular care, interest,and sound judgment. He doesn’t shy away from particularly challenging cases. Pierre’s greatest reward comes from the satisfaction of assisting clients through one of the most challenging experiences of their lives.