10 Realistic Ways to Pay for a Divorce When You’re Broke
Divorce can feel overwhelming — especially when you’re already stretched thin emotionally, mentally, and financially. If you’re wondering how to pay for a divorce when you're broke, you’re not alone.
Many women, especially those navigating separation with kids at home and little to no income, find themselves asking: "How can I afford to leave?" The good news is: there are real, accessible options available to help you move forward safely, even if you’re starting with zero dollars in the bank.
At Fresh Starts Registry, we believe everyone deserves the chance to rebuild their life — no matter their financial situation. Below, you’ll find 10 realistic ways to pay for a divorce that are compassionate, actionable, and designed with real life in mind.
10 Ways to Pay for a Divorce When You Have No Money
1. Legal Aid or Sliding Scale Legal Services
What it is: Free or low-cost legal help based on income, provided by nonprofit organizations or attorneys with flexible fee structures.
Why it’s smart: You get professional help for little or no cost, which is essential if children, abuse, or property are involved.
How to access:
Visit LSC.gov to find legal aid near you
Call your local courthouse for referrals
Search for attorneys in your area who advertise “sliding scale” or “low bono” services
Click here for a script for calling your local courthouse!
2. Court Fee Waivers (In Forma Pauperis)
What it is: Most courts waive filing fees if you’re unable to afford them. This includes divorce petitions, custody filings, and more.
Why it’s smart: It allows you to start the divorce process without spending hundreds on paperwork.
How to access:
Ask the court clerk for an “In Forma Pauperis” or fee waiver application
Submit documentation like pay stubs, benefits letters, or proof of unemployment
3. Pro Bono Attorneys
What it is: Volunteer lawyers take on certain cases for free, especially for survivors of abuse or individuals with low income.
Why it’s smart: You gain expert legal representation without financial pressure.
How to access:
Contact your state’s Bar Association
Visit local legal aid clinics or call shelters—many have direct access to pro bono attorneys
Try Probono.net for resources by state
4. Attorney Payment Plans
What it is: Some attorneys allow you to pay over time or offer flat-fee packages for uncontested divorces.
Why it’s smart: It gives you access to a professional without requiring thousands of dollars upfront.
How to access:
During your consultation, ask directly about payment plans or unbundled services (limited scope legal help)
Look for family law attorneys who advertise payment flexibility on their websites
5. Divorce.com (Online Divorce Platform)
What it is: An online service that helps you complete and file your divorce paperwork without hiring an attorney. Divorce.com offers flat-rate packages and step-by-step support.
Why it’s smart: It's significantly cheaper than hiring a lawyer, especially for uncontested or cooperative divorces.
How to access:
Visit Divorce.com
Choose a package based on your state and circumstances
Prices start around $199, and many people qualify for payment support or promotions
6. Self-Filing (DIY Divorce Through the Courts)
What it is: You complete and file your own divorce paperwork without an attorney, usually through your local family court.
Why it’s smart: It's the lowest-cost legal route available when both spouses agree on key issues like custody and finances.
How to access:
Go to your state or county family court website and search for “DIY divorce” or “self-help forms”
Some states even offer free online document prep tools (e.g., California, New York, Texas)
Ask the court clerk for guidance—many courts have staff who can’t give legal advice but can explain the process
7. Mediation Services
What it is: A neutral third-party helps you and your spouse agree on divorce terms without going to court.
Why it’s smart: Mediation is often 50–75% cheaper than a traditional divorce and reduces emotional strain.
How to access:
Look for court-sponsored mediation programs (sometimes free or very low-cost)
Search for certified mediators in your state through Mediate.com
Ask your local family court if they offer low-cost or sliding scale mediation
8. Nonprofit Support Organizations & Shelters
What it is: Women’s shelters and nonprofits provide wraparound support, including legal aid, housing, transportation, and sometimes emergency funding.
Why it’s smart: These organizations often have connections and resources you may not be aware of, especially if you're leaving an unsafe or controlling situation.
How to access:
Call 211 or visit 211.org for help finding local services
Contact The Hotline at 800-799-SAFE for confidential, 24/7 support
Reach out to local YWCAs, women's crisis centers, or parenting support nonprofits
9. Borrow from Trusted Friends or Family (with a Repayment Plan)
What it is: Asking a trusted loved one to lend you money short-term so you can get legal support and start your divorce process.
Why it’s smart: It allows you to act quickly while staying out of debt or predatory loans.
How to access:
Be honest and specific: “I need $500 to file and serve divorce papers. I can repay $100/month starting this summer.”
Offer to sign a repayment agreement if needed—this builds trust and protects both parties
10. Legal Clinics at Law Schools
What it is:
Many law schools have family law clinics where supervised law students provide free legal assistance, including help with divorce cases, custody arrangements, and court filings.
Why it’s smart:
You receive professional-level support at no cost. The students are closely supervised by experienced family law attorneys, and these clinics are often eager to help with complex or low-income cases. It’s a win-win—you're supported, and they gain real-world experience.
How to access:
Search online for law schools in your state with “legal clinic” or “family law clinic”
Examples: “Boston University Family Law Clinic,” “University of Michigan Legal Services Clinic,” etc.
Call or email the clinic directly—many take on new clients each semester and have intake applications on their websites
No matter your financial situation, you deserve access to a safe divorce and a fresh start. It can be scary to leave when money feels like an impossible obstacle — but there are compassionate paths forward. Whether it’s through legal aid, payment plans, mediation, or community support, you have options.
At Fresh Starts Registry, we’re here to support you every step of the way. If you need more personalized guidance or emotional support, we invite you to browse our Fresh Starts Experts — a community of coaches, therapists, mediators, and legal professionals ready to help you build your next chapter.
Remember: Leaving is brave. Rebuilding is possible. You are never alone.