How Much Does a Divorce Cost in Germany?
A divorce in Germany involves court fees, attorney costs, and potentially additional proceedings. The total depends primarily on both partners' income, joint assets, and whether the divorce is amicable or contested.
An amicable divorce with one lawyer typically costs between €1,500 and €4,000. A contested divorce can quickly reach €5,000 to €15,000 or significantly more — especially when equalization of gains, custody, and maintenance must be litigated.
How the Procedural Value Is Calculated
The procedural value is the key figure determining all costs. It's calculated as follows: three times the combined monthly net income, plus 5% of joint assets. If pension equalization applies, 10% of the combined annual income per pension right is added. The minimum procedural value is €4,000.
Court Fees Under the GKG
Court fees follow the Court Costs Act (GKG). For divorce proceedings, 2.0 fees apply. The fee table maps procedural values to specific amounts. Court costs are typically split equally between both partners.
Attorney Fees Under the RVG
Attorney fees are calculated under the Lawyers' Remuneration Act (RVG). A lawyer receives a procedural fee (1.3x), a hearing fee (1.2x), and a flat expense allowance of €20, all plus 19% VAT.
Amicable vs. Contested — The Big Cost Difference
The most important cost factor is whether the divorce is amicable or contested. An amicable divorce requires only one lawyer who files the petition. The other partner agrees without hiring their own lawyer, saving the entire second attorney's fees. A contested divorce requires two lawyers, and each additional proceeding has its own costs.
Hidden Costs of Divorce
Beyond legal fees, every divorce brings additional financial burdens: moving costs (€800-€3,000), double household expenses for the first months (€3,000-€9,000), tax class changes with annual disadvantages, new insurance policies (€400-€1,200 annually), and ongoing child maintenance.
Legal Aid — When You Can't Afford It
Those who cannot afford divorce costs may be eligible for legal aid (Verfahrenskostenhilfe). The state covers court and attorney fees or grants installment payments. Eligibility depends on disposable income after deducting allowances, maintenance obligations, and housing costs.
How to Reduce Your Divorce Costs
The most effective strategies: agree on an amicable divorce with one lawyer, settle consequences in a notarized agreement, use mediation for disagreements, check legal aid eligibility, and consider online divorce services.