How much does an uncontested divorce cost in Ontario?
The cost of an uncontested divorce in Ontario has two main components: court filing fees and any legal fees you pay.
Court filing fees are set by the province and are payable when you submit your application. Fee amounts are set by regulation and can change, so confirm the current amount directly with the courthouse or on the Ontario Courts website before you file. A fee waiver is available if you receive social assistance or have very low income.
Legal fees vary widely based on how much help you need. If you hire a lawyer to prepare and file the entire uncontested divorce on your behalf, the cost depends on the firm's rates and the complexity of your situation. Some firms offer flat-fee uncontested divorce packages. If you hire a lawyer only for limited tasks — reviewing your separation agreement, answering questions, but not handling the filing — costs are lower. Self-represented applicants pay only the court fees.
Other potential costs include a marriage certificate replacement if you don't have the original, certified translation fees if your certificate is in another language, and commissioner of oaths fees for commissioned affidavits. Overall, an uncontested divorce where the parties have already resolved all issues is significantly less expensive than a contested matter.
Key takeaways
- Court filing fees are set by provincial regulation — check the current amount with the courthouse.
- Legal fees depend on how much help you engage a lawyer for.
- Flat-fee packages for uncontested divorces are offered by many Ontario family law firms.
- A fee waiver is available for applicants on low income or social assistance.