The Essentials at a Glance
- As a rule a year of separation is required first.
- Legal representation is mandatory before the family court; if you agree, one lawyer is enough.
- Costs follow the procedural value – they are calculable, not freely negotiated.
- An amicable divorce is faster and cheaper.
- Those who cannot bear the costs may be entitled to legal aid.
Initial consultation at a fixed fee
The initial legal consultation is charged at a fixed fee of €190 plus VAT (the statutory cap under § 34 RVG) and is credited against your fees if you instruct us. An enquiry beforehand is free.
The Process in Five Steps
Year of separation
Usually you must live apart for one year first – possible within the same home, too.
Legal advice
We clarify your situation, goals and the matters to be settled (maintenance, assets, children).
Divorce petition
We file the petition with the competent family court.
Court proceedings
As a rule the pension equalisation (sharing of pension entitlements) is carried out; open points are resolved.
Divorce decree
The court grants the divorce. It becomes effective once final.
A new course
Take the helm yourself and set your own sails.
How Long Does a Divorce Take?
It depends heavily on your situation. An amicable divorce without points of dispute is often comparatively quick; if maintenance, assets or custody are contested – or there is a cross-border element – it takes longer. The main time factor is usually the pension equalisation, because obtaining the providers' figures takes time. What speeds things up: a cleanly documented separation year, complete documents and agreement on the consequences.
What Does a Divorce Cost?
Costs are set by law and calculable, not freely negotiated. The key figure is the procedural value: it is based chiefly on both spouses' net incomes and takes account of any assets. From it follow court costs and lawyer's fees under the statutory tables.
So the higher the income and assets, the higher the procedural value – and the cost. We work it through transparently and give you a concrete estimate before you decide. If your means are insufficient, we check a claim to legal aid. Typical items: court costs, lawyer's fees and, if you have agreements notarised, notary costs. If further matters (maintenance, the gain) are dealt with alongside the divorce, the procedural value rises accordingly.
Your Confidential Consultation
Would you like clarity on process and costs in your specific case? That is exactly what the initial consultation is for – confidential and without obligation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Roughly what does a divorce cost?
A reliable figure is only possible once the procedural value is known. In the initial consultation we work it through for your case.
Who pays for the divorce?
Court costs are usually split equally; each lawyer's fee is borne by the person who instructs that lawyer. In an amicable divorce only one lawyer is needed.
What is legal aid?
State support for the costs of proceedings for people on low incomes. We check whether you qualify.
Do maintenance or assets increase the cost?
Yes. If such matters are dealt with alongside the divorce, the procedural value – and the fees – rise. We tell you in advance what to expect.
Your next step
Tell us about your situation
We listen, make sense of it and show you your options — confidential and on equal terms. Your enquiry is free and without obligation.