how much is a divorce in indiana without an attorney

by Bryon Watsica 3 min read

The cost for filing a petition for divorce in Indiana varies from county to county, but generally should not exceed $200. In the least expensive kinds of cases, couples will be able to come to an agreement on the their separation terms before filing for a divorce.

Divorce Filing Fees and Typical Attorney Fees by State
StateAverage Filing FeesOther Divorce Costs and Attorney Fees
Indiana$157Average fees: $9,000
Iowa$185Average fees: $9,000+
Kansas$400Average fees: $8,000+
Kentucky$148 (without an attorney), $153 (with an attorney)Average fees: $8,000+
48 more rows
Jul 21, 2020

Full Answer

How to get a divorce in Indiana without an attorney?

Feb 25, 2022 · Fees: The fees for filing for a divorce in Indiana ranges from $132-$152 and the fee varies from one county to another. If you cannot afford the filing fees, then you must fill the …

Who is the best divorce attorney in Indiana?

Apr 03, 2015 · The cost for filing a petition for divorce in Indiana varies from county to county, but generally should not exceed $200. In the least expensive kinds of cases, couples will be able to …

Can you get a divorce without a lawyer?

Online Divorce in Indiana. 100% Court Approval Guarantee. Best price $139. File for a divorce without an attorney in the State of Indiana. With Online Indiana Divorce, you can have your …

What questions should you ask a divorce attorney?

Apr 30, 2012 · It would be easier if you have an attorney, because the attorney is familiar with the divorce laws and with the courts. However, there is no requirement that you have an attorney …

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How much does it cost to file your own divorce in Indiana?

between $132 and $152
How much does it cost to get a divorce? The court will charge a filing fee which will vary between $132 and $152, depending on which county you are in. You usually have to pay this fee in cash or by certified check or money order.Aug 29, 2014

Can you file for divorce for free in Indiana?

Divorce Filing Fees in Indiana

You'll have to pay court fees when you file your divorce paperwork. As of 2021, the filing fee for a civil case (such as divorce) is $157. Your cost might be different if you pay to have the divorce papers served on your spouse or if the clerk of the court assesses other fees.

Can you get a divorce without going to court in Indiana?

An uncontested divorce can be pretty quick if you meet Indiana's residency requirement. You or your spouse must have been living in the state (or stationed there in the military) for the six-month period immediately before you file for a dissolution of marriage.

Who pays for the divorce in Indiana?

Under the English Rule, the prevailing (winning) party generally paid the others legal fees. The American Rule is much different. With it, each side pays their own legal fees. There are three (3) major exceptions.

How do I start a divorce in Indiana?

Steps Involved in Obtaining a Divorce in Indiana
  1. Preparing for Your Divorce. ...
  2. Filing the Petition for Dissolution of Marriage (and Other Forms) ...
  3. Service of Process. ...
  4. Financial Disclosures. ...
  5. Provisional Hearing. ...
  6. Negotiation, Mediation or Collaborative Law. ...
  7. Waiting Period. ...
  8. Going to Court.
Apr 30, 2018

What happens after 60 days of filing for divorce?

A court cannot grant a divorce until 60 days after the suit for divorce was filed and until 20 days after the respondent was properly served. This means a court may grant a divorce on day 61 after a divorce is filed but in reality that rarely happens.

How long does an uncontested divorce take in Indiana?

60 days
How long does it take to get a divorce in Indiana? Typically, it takes at least 60 days before the court can finalize a divorce in Indiana. Once the divorce is filed, the court can issue temporary orders, but the actual divorce cannot be finalized until 60 days have passed from the date that the divorce was filed.

How long after divorce can you remarry in Indiana?

Divorce on the Grounds of Adultery
StatePost-Divorce Remarriage Waiting Period
IllinoisNone
IndianaNone
IowaNone
Kansas30 days unless waived in Decree
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Can you date while separated in Indiana?

In Indiana, unlike some state, the mandatory waiting period from the date of the filing of the divorce petition until the divorce can be final is sixty (60) days. That doesn't mean that all divorces can be finalized in 60 days, but it does mean that, for most people, you only have to wait a few months to start dating.Jul 1, 2015

Can a spouse kick you out of the house in Indiana?

One can move out while the divorce underway, with or without the permission of the other spouse or by agreement formalized through the court. However, the relocating spouse may have a difficult time regaining possession of the marital residence during the divorce.Feb 16, 2021

What happens when you file for divorce first?

You get first choice for professional help, like attorneys.

If your marriage has deteriorated to the point where you're considering a divorce, acting first allows you to have first choice of local attorneys. You can choose a divorce lawyer who will fight for your rights and for the best terms possible.
Jan 26, 2021

Who gets to stay in the house during separation?

Both spouses are allowed to live in the family home while they are separated, no matter who owns it. In theory, one spouse can't force the other out. A spouse who decides to leave can return whenever he or she wants to. It's better if the spouses can agree on who will stay in the home if they decide to separate.

How much does it cost to get divorced in Indiana?

How Much Does A Divorce Cost In Indiana. The cost for filing a petition for divorce in Indiana varies from county to county, but generally should not exceed $200. In the least expensive kinds of cases, couples will be able to come to an agreement on the their separation terms before filing for a divorce.

Can you contest a divorce after being served?

After the person being served the divorce papers waives their right to contest the charges, the jointly agreed-upon plan for the separation can be submitted to the court . Sometimes, both parties may not be able to come to an agreement that is mutually acceptable.

Can you divide property in Indiana?

Assets acquired both during a prior to a marriage may be subject to division in a divorce. Indiana is only one of a handful of states that divide property acquired before marriage. Spouses need to execute a pre-nuptial agreement prior to marriage to ensure property is kept separate. Property division is governed by several factors ...

Is a gift to one spouse considered separate property in Indiana?

Gifts given to only one spouse in Indiana are considered separate property. A spouse must be able to prove that the gift was given only to them. In cases where gifts are commingled, they may become marital assets. Courts will have a certain amount of discretion to determine if a gift is a separate or a marital asset in these situations.

What is the parenting time law in Indiana?

Indiana uses Parenting Time guidelines which subscribe to the belief that it is usually in a child’s best interests to have frequent and meaningful contact with each parent. A parent who is not granted primary custody is entitled to reasonable parenting time unless there are extenuating circumstances that could endanger the child, such as domestic violence or drug abuse.

Is Indiana a division state?

Marital Property and Division of Assets in Indiana. Indiana is an equitable distribution state which means assets are divided fairly and equitably, but necessarily equally. Assets acquired both during a prior to a marriage may be subject to division in a divorce. Indiana is only one of a handful of states that divide property acquired ...

Does Indiana have a prenuptial agreement?

Indiana is only one of a handful of states that divide property acquired before marriage. Spouses need to execute a pre-nuptial agreement prior to marriage to ensure property is kept separate. Property division is governed by several factors that are to be considered when dividing assets. These factors include:

Is Indiana a 50-50 split?

There is a presumption of a 50-50 split on debts in Indiana despite being an equitable distribution state. It is possible to make a case that debts should be divided differently, but you will need to convince a judge as to why this should be the case.

Is inheritance considered marital property in Indiana?

Inherited Property. Property inherited by one spouse in Indiana during a marriage is separate and not considered marital property . As is the case with gifts, if an inheritance is commingled with marital assets, it may become a marital asset as well.

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How long does it take to get divorce in Indiana?

How long does it take to get a divorce in Indiana? Typically, it takes at least 60 days before the court can finalize a divorce in Indiana. Once the divorce is filed, the court can issue temporary orders, but the actual divorce cannot be finalized until 60 days have passed from the date that the divorce was filed.

Is Indiana a no fault divorce state?

What are the laws for divorce in Indiana? Although Indiana is a “no-fault” divorce state, the Petition for Dissolution of Marriage must declare the appropriate grounds upon which the dissolution is being sought.

Is property divided in half in Indiana?

In Indiana, property will typically be divided in half. While that does not mean items will always be split 50/50, the value of marital property will generally be divided equally between the two. However, there are instances where the court will give one spouse more property than the other.

What is the reason for an annulment in Indiana?

An annulment may be granted upon a showing by a party of one of the following grounds: one spouse is under age or was mentally incompetent to consent; the marriage was obtained by fraud; one spouse is of unsound mind; or one spouse was married in another state with the intent to evade the marriage laws of Indiana.

Can you move to Indiana while dissolution is pending?

You are not required to remain in the state while your dissolution is pending. If you have children in the state, you may be prevented from relocating during the pendency of your dissolution. If you do move, you will still be expected to return to Indiana to attend any mandatory hearings in court.

How long does it take to file a divorce complaint in Indiana?

How and where is a divorce complaint filed in Indiana? A divorce complaint (or Petition for Dissolution) is filed in the county of your residence (for at least three months) in the state in which you have lived for at least six months.

What is the appropriate lawful ground for dissolution of marriage?

The appropriate lawful ground will be that which the parties agree upon and can substantiate, or that which the filing spouse desires to prove to the court. The dissolution of marriage grounds are as follows: Irretrievable breakdown of the marriage. Fault: The felony conviction of either of the parties; Impotence; or.

Can you get divorced in Indiana without fault?

Grounds for Divorce in Indiana. Indiana offers both fault and no-fault divorces. A no-fault divorce doesn’t legally place any blame for the dissolution of the union. A couple is eligible for a no-fault divorce for the basic reason of an irretrievable breakdown of the marriage. This can be contested by the other spouse.

Does Indiana have a fault divorce?

Bottom Line. Indiana offers both fault and no-fault divorces, though the grounds for fault divorces are fairly basic. A divorce can go through mediation, or it can go to trial. At the trial, a judge will make decisions that are legally binding regarding property, child custody and any other divorce issues.

Can a spouse go back to the marriage in Indiana?

A couple is eligible for a no-fault divorce for the basic reason of an irretrievable breakdown of the marriage. This can be contested by the other spouse. However, if one spouse claims he or she will not go back to the marriage, the judge is likely to grant the divorce. This can happen at least 60 days from the date of the petition’s filing.

How to divide property in Indiana after divorce?

This means the court does not have to divide property equally between the spouses. Instead, it aims to divide things up more fairly. When dividing property, the first step is to assign value to each piece of property.

Is Indiana an equitable division state?

Indiana is an equitable division state. This means the court does not have to divide property equally between the spouses. Instead, it aims to divide things up more fairly. When dividing property, the first step is to assign value to each piece of property.

Can you split 401(k) in divorce in Indiana?

401 (k) and IRA and Divorce in Indiana. There are several key things you should know about splitting up a 401 (k) in a divorce. First, the judge will determine which portion of the plan assets is marital property.

Can you start a new estate plan in Indiana if you are divorced?

Divorce and Estate Planning in Indiana. Even if you drew up an estate plan while married, with the divorce it will likely make sense for you to start fresh on a new estate plan. Before, your spouse would likely have inherited your property if you were to die.

What is the key to a fresh start in Indiana?

You really don’t know which it will be unless you consult a knowledgeable Indiana divorce attorney. The key to your fresh start is a clean divorce, one that addresses all necessary matters, including division of assets and liability, child custody and parenting time, child support, and spousal maintenance.

Is Indiana a no fault divorce state?

Indiana is a no-fault divorce state. This means neither party needs to prove the other is to blame in some way for the breakdown of the marriage before the court will grant the divorce. For this reason, sometimes parties ending a marriage believe they can handle the divorce themselves.

Can a non-lawyer file an uncontested divorce in Indiana?

But non-lawyers generally don’t have the legal experience to: An uncontested divorce attorney understands that an uncontested divorce in Indiana is a cooperative endeavor and works to facilitate that and protect your rights without inciting disagreement.

Is divorce stressful?

Divorce is understandably stressful, even when both parties agree on the terms of their parting. Despite a general agreement, there can still be emotional turmoil and the need for courtroom hearings and the preparation and filing of legal documents to legally dissolve the marriage.

What is an uncontested divorce?

An uncontested divorce attorney recognizes that the parties wish to collaborate on all of the matters necessary to divide their personal and financial lives. An uncontested divorce often avoids courtroom drama and, thereby, helps lessen the emotional upheaval that accompanies a divorce. An uncontested divorce attorney shares knowledge of the law and the divorce process, gained by years of experience, to ease the couple’s unjoining.

Why is it important to have flexibility in a divorce?

Flexibility: Because the parties are negotiating their own terms, they can also set the schedule and pace of their divorce, often avoiding court deadlines and hearing dates. Cost: Uncontested divorces are usually quicker and don't involve as many court fees.

How does one spouse initiate divorce?

One spouse initiates the divorce by filing a petition for dissolution with the clerk of the court. The filing party must also effect service (deliver the legal documents) on the other spouse in a manner described by court rules.

Is divorce painful in Indiana?

Divorce (known as a dissolution of marriage in Indiana) doesn't have to be painful. If you and your spouse are willing to take the high road through compromise and working out your differences, you can have a relatively peaceful, quick divorce in Indiana.

What is an uncontested divorce in Indiana?

Uncontested divorce is sometimes known as "divorce with agreement on all issues.". The name explains it all. To get an uncontested divorce in Indiana, you'll need to agree with your spouse on how you will deal with: if you have minor children, custody, parenting time (visitation), and child support.

How long do you have to live in Indiana to get divorce?

You or your spouse must have been living in the state (or stationed there in the military) for the six-month period immediately before you file for a dissolution of marriage.

How long do you have to wait to file for divorce in Indiana?

Once your paperwork is filed, you'll need to wait 60 days for your divorce to be finalized (Ind. Code §31-15-2-10 (2021)).

Do you have to file a response to a divorce petition in Indiana?

The petitioner must properly serve the divorce paperwork on the other spouse (the "respondent"), unless the respondent files a service waiver form with the court. In Indiana, the respondent isn't required to file a response to the divorce petition.

Can you avoid going to court if you get an uncontested divorce?

In fact, you may be able to avoid going to court altogether if you get what's known as an uncontested divorce. This article provides an overview of the process for obtaining an uncontested divorce in Indiana.

Can you get divorce if you have minor children?

if you have minor children, custody, parenting time (visitation), and child support. If the two of you can't come to an agreement on any of these issues, you can't get an uncontested divorce. Instead, a judge will decide any contested issues in your case at trial.

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Equitable Distribution & Asset Division

  • Marital Property and Division of Assets in Indiana
    Indiana is an equitable distribution state which means assets are divided fairly and equitably, but necessarily equally. Assets acquired both during a prior to a marriage may be subject to division in a divorce. Property division is governed by several factors that are to be considered when divi…
  • Debts
    There is a presumption of a 50-50 split on debts in Indiana despite being an equitable distribution state. It is possible to make a case that debts should be divided differently, but you will need to convince a judge as to why this should be the case.
See more on survivedivorce.com

Support Issues

  • Spousal Maintenance in Indiana
    There are several factors that will determine if spousal maintenance (alimony) in Indiana should be awarded or not. Spousal maintenance may be awarded for a set period of time, or there may be rehabilitative maintenance that will be awarded, but not for a period of longer than three years fr…
  • Child Support in Indiana
    Indiana uses the Income Shares Model for calculating child support. This formula uses weekly gross income of the parents and the number of children for which support is required. Deductions are made for child support paid to other children and maintenance paid to other spouses. Court…
See more on survivedivorce.com

Custody and Visitation

  • Child Custody in Indiana
    Indiana uses Parenting Time guidelines which subscribe to the belief that it is usually in a child’s best interests to have frequent and meaningful contact with each parent. A parent who is not granted primary custody is entitled to reasonable parenting time unless there are extenuating cir…
  • Substance Abuse
    By itself, substance abuse is not considered one of the grounds for divorce in Indiana. However, if the use of drugs or alcohol is present in a marriage it could impact parts of the divorce settlement. Specifically, any drug use that negatively impacts children or a parent’s ability to car…
See more on survivedivorce.com

Process

  • Bifurcation of marital status
    Bifurcation means that both parties in a divorce can legally declared as a single person while the other issues in their divorce are still being worked out. It does not affect things such as child custody, visitation, child support, alimony or other contentious issues that may have stalled or b…
  • Disclosing Assets
    As part of the divorce process, both spouses must provide financial disclosures. This includes, assets, income and debts. This is so equitable distribution can take place in an appropriate way. Any attempt to hide assets could result in serious repercussions. If one spouse suspects that th…
See more on survivedivorce.com

Other Issues

  • Domestic Violence
    Domestic violence in Indiana can include any kind of physical abuse, emotional abuse, stalking, or any other kind of harassment including those made through phone calls, mail, or social media inflicted on one spouse by the other. It can play a factor in a divorce, but those actions are secon…
  • Health Insurance
    Indiana courts generally require that both parties maintain status quo when it comes to health insurance during a divorce. However, after a divorce is granted, this does not mean that health insurance is required to continue. In fact, most employers will not carry an ex-spouse after a div…
See more on survivedivorce.com