Maryland Divorce Costs and Filing Fees (2026)
Maryland's $165 filing fee is one of the lowest in the country. Combined with no waiting period and streamlined mutual consent procedures, an agreed Maryland divorce can be completed at very low cost.
Core Filing Costs
| Fee | Amount |
|---|---|
| Circuit Court filing fee (Complaint for Absolute Divorce) | $165 |
| Certified copies of Judgment of Absolute Divorce | $10–$20 per copy |
| Service fee (sheriff or process server) | $30–$80 |
| Certified mail service | $10–$20 |
County Variations
Maryland's filing fee is set by statute at $165. However, some counties may add small administrative surcharges. Confirm the current total with your county's Circuit Court Clerk.
Major counties:
| County | Base Fee |
|---|---|
| Baltimore City | $165 |
| Montgomery County | $165 |
| Prince George's County | $165 |
| Anne Arundel County | $165 |
| Baltimore County | $165 |
| Howard County | $165 |
Ancillary Costs
| Item | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| QDRO — employer retirement plan | $400–$1,500 per plan |
| Real estate deed preparation | $200–$600 |
| Land records recording fee | $40–$100 per document |
| Property appraisal | $400–$800 |
| Business valuation | $2,000–$10,000 |
| Mediator | $200–$450/hour |
| Limited-scope attorney (document review) | $400–$1,200 |
Fee Waiver (Indigency)
Maryland courts waive fees for qualifying low-income filers.
How to apply:
- Complete a Request for Waiver of Prepaid Costs (form available at mdcourts.gov)
- File with the Complaint
- Judge reviews and approves
Eligibility: Income below 125% of federal poverty level, or receipt of public benefits (Medicaid, SNAP, TCA, SSI).
Total Cost Estimates
| Scenario | Estimated Total |
|---|---|
| Mutual consent, no children, no real estate or retirement | $165–$350 |
| Mutual consent, with children (agreed) | $200–$500 |
| With real estate (deed + recording) | $500–$1,200 |
| With employer retirement account (QDRO) | $700–$2,000 |
| Contested, negotiated settlement | $3,000–$15,000 |
| Contested through trial | $20,000–$80,000+ |
Why Maryland's Fees Are Low
At $165, Maryland's filing fee is significantly lower than California ($435), New Jersey ($300+), or Minnesota ($360–$400). Combined with the post-2023 reform eliminating the 12-month separation requirement, Maryland is now one of the more accessible states for self-represented filers.
Last reviewed: March 2026 | $165 base filing fee | mdcourts.gov/legalhelp/familylawforms for free forms
Written by the SoLongSoulmate.com Editorial Team
Researched using official state court websites, state statutes, and legal aid resources. All filing fees and procedures verified March 2026. This is general legal information — not legal advice.
Last reviewed: March 2026 · Verify current fees and forms with your local court before filing.