SimpleDivorce vs. a Divorce Attorney
For an uncontested divorce, a flat fee and guided forms beat an hourly retainer. For a fight, hire the attorney — that's what our referral is for.
Get Started| SimpleDivorce | a divorce attorney | |
|---|---|---|
| Typical cost | Flat $399 | $3,000–$15,000+ retainer, billed hourly |
| Timeline | Forms in days; court controls final timing | Weeks to months, varies by caseload |
| Legal advice | No — document preparation only; attorney referral available | Yes — licensed legal representation |
| Best for | Uncontested divorces where both spouses agree | Contested cases, complex assets, custody disputes |
| Who does the work | You answer a questionnaire; we prepare & file | The attorney and their staff |
Flat fee vs. hourly
SimpleDivorce charges one flat fee for an uncontested divorce, so you know the cost up front. Attorneys typically bill hourly against a retainer, which is well suited to disputes but expensive when there's nothing to fight about.
SimpleDivorce pricing modelWhen a divorce attorney may fit
If your divorce is contested, or you have complex assets, contested custody, or any safety concern, hire an attorney — that's exactly what our free attorney referral service is for.
FAQ
No. SimpleDivorce is a document-preparation and filing-support company, not a law firm, and does not give legal advice. For an uncontested divorce most people don't need a lawyer; for a contested case, you should hire one.