Do I need to meet residency requirements

Yes. Many states require residency in the state or county before filing. For example, Utah generally requires three months in the county.

Can I represent myself

Yes, though it’s wise to seek legal advice. Many courts provide self help centers and forms.

What does a divorce usually cost

Costs vary by state, lawyer rates and whether the matter is contested. Uncontested cases are typically less expensive.

Where can I find reliable information

Use official state court self help resources and the American Bar Association’s family law pages.

America’s Best Divorce And Family Lawyers

Q: How do I start a divorce

File a petition in the correct state court, serve your spouse, exchange required financial disclosures and follow your state’s procedures.

Q: How long does a divorce take

It varies by state and case complexity. California has a minimum six month waiting period from service to judgment.

Q: What issues are decided in divorce

Property division, child custody, parenting time, child support and spousal support are common issues.

Q: Is mediation required

Many courts require or encourage mediation before trial. Check local rules or consult an attorney.

Q: How is child support calculated

States use guidelines and calculators based on income, parenting time and other factors.

Q: What is spousal support

Support paid to a spouse after separation or divorce. Eligibility and duration depend on state law and case factors.

There are over 50,000 divorce and separation lawyers across the United States. If you need a trusted attorney, the shortlists below highlight leading firms and lawyers with strong reputations for client service, litigation skill, and settlement strategy. Always confirm the firm serves your state before you decide who to instruct.

Browse Leading Divorce Attorneys By City

See also our guide to online divorce and mediation law firms in the USA. For England, Scotland, Northern Ireland and Ireland shortlists, start here.

Five Fantastic Divorce And Family Law Firms

Jensen Family Law, Arizona

Jensen Family Law handles divorce, legal separation, child custody, child support, spousal maintenance, mediation and high-conflict parenting disputes in Arizona.

Fantastic Lawyer: Kevin Jensen

Client testimonial: “Kevin Jensen is an amazing attorney… I would not have survived my divorce without Kevin’s expertise and the help and support from his team.” [1]

Office: 2915 E Baseline Rd, Suite 115, Gilbert, AZ 85234 [2]

Maggio Law Firm, Orange County, California

Maggio Law Firm focuses on divorce, child custody, mediation, property division, high-asset divorce and business valuation issues.

Fantastic Lawyer: Gerald A. Maggio

Client testimonial: “My divorce was so smooth from start to finish and he made the whole process painless.” [3]

Office: 420 Exchange, Suite 270, Irvine, CA 92602 [4]

Gerald A. Maggio, Orange County divorce lawyer

Minyard Morris, Orange County, California

Minyard Morris is a specialist Orange County family law practice known for complex divorce litigation, custody and support matters.

Fantastic Lawyer: Matthew S. Buttacavoli

Client testimonial: “The service was outstanding… calming, professional and compassionate during an extremely emotional time.” [5]

Office: 1811 Quail Street, Newport Beach, CA 92660 [6]

Matthew S. Buttacavoli, Orange County family lawyer

Wilkinson and Finkbeiner, San Diego, California

Wilkinson and Finkbeiner represents clients in divorce, custody, support and post-judgment modifications, with offices across San Diego County.

Fantastic Lawyer: David Wilkinson

Client testimonial: “Experienced and professional, yet supportive and easy to talk to… 100 percent committed to getting me the positive outcome I needed.” [7]

Office: 2477 Congress Street, San Diego, CA 92110 [8]

David Wilkinson, San Diego divorce lawyer

Law Office of David Pedrazas, Salt Lake City, Utah

Law Office of David Pedrazas, PLLC advises on divorce, custody, child support, alimony and enforcement across Utah.

Fantastic Lawyer: David Pedrazas

Client testimonial: “After a couple bumps in the litigation… we won and I got everything I asked for.” [9]

Office: 3920 S 1100 E, Suite 320, Salt Lake City, UT 84124 [10]

Special Mentions

Cordell and Cordell, nationwide

Cordell and Cordell focuses exclusively on family law, with 100 plus offices in 30 plus states. Representative location: 3636 S Geyer Rd, Suite 100S, St. Louis, MO 63127. [11] [12]

Stange Law Firm, multi-state

Stange Law Firm is a multi-state domestic relations practice serving the Midwest and beyond. Representative office: 120 South Central Ave, Suite 450, Clayton, MO 63105. [13] [14]

Typical Services In A US Divorce

Divorce and legal separation
Child custody and parenting time
Child support and enforcement
Spousal support and alimony
Property division and business valuation
High-asset and complex cases
Post-judgment modifications and enforcement
Mediation and settlement conferences
Prenuptial and postnuptial agreements
Domestic violence protective orders

FAQs

1. How do I start a divorce File a petition in the correct state court, serve the other party, disclose finances and follow your state’s process. [15] [16]

2. How long does a divorce take Timeframes vary by state and case complexity. California has a minimum six month waiting period. [17]

3. Do I need to live in the state before filing Residency rules apply. For example, Utah generally requires three months in a county before filing. [18]

4. What issues are decided in divorce Property division, custody, parenting time, child support and spousal support are common issues. [19]

5. Is mediation required Many courts encourage or require mediation before trial. Check your local rules or ask your attorney.

6. How is child support calculated States use guidelines and calculators. See your local court’s resources for worksheets. [20]

7. What is spousal support Payments to help a spouse after separation or divorce, governed by state law and factors like length of marriage and income. [21]

8. Can I self represent Yes, but consider at least a consultation. Self help centers and forms are available in many courts. [22] [23]

9. How much will it cost Fees depend on complexity, disputes and attorney rates. Uncontested matters are usually less expensive than trials.

10. Where can I get reliable information State court self help portals and the American Bar Association’s family law resources are good places to start. [24] [25]