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Contested Divorce in Indianapolis, IN

What to expect from a contested divorce in Indianapolis, IN. Timeline, costs, and strategies. Indiana follows equitable distribution.

Property Type

Equitable

Filing Fee

$150–$185

Median Cost

$8,000–$32,000

Annual Divorces

28,000+

Understanding Contested Divorce in Indianapolis, IN

To file for divorce in Indianapolis, IN, you must meet Indiana’s residency requirement of 6 months. The filing fee is $150–$185. There is a mandatory waiting period of 60 days before the divorce can be finalized.

Indiana only allows no-fault divorce. You file on the grounds of irreconcilable differences or irretrievable breakdown of the marriage.

An uncontested divorce in Indiana typically costs $8,000 and takes 2–4 months. Contested cases average $32,000 and can take 12–18 months or longer. The governing statute is Ind. Code §31-15-2-3.

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Common Questions

How long do you have to live in Indiana to file for divorce?
Indiana requires 6 months of residency before you can file for divorce. Ind. Code §31-15-2-3 governs the filing requirements.
Is Indiana a community property or equitable distribution state?
Indiana follows equitable distribution rules, meaning the court divides marital assets fairly but not necessarily equally.
How much does a divorce cost in Indiana?
Filing fees in Indiana range from $150–$185. The median total cost is approximately $8,000 for uncontested divorces and $32,000 for contested cases.
How long does a divorce take in Indiana?
Indiana has a mandatory waiting period of 60 days. Uncontested divorces typically finalize in 2–4 months, while contested cases can take 12–18 months or longer.
How is child support calculated in Indiana?
Indiana uses the Income Shares model, based on both parents' combined income. The formula considers both parents' incomes, number of children, health insurance costs, and childcare expenses.

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Related Resources

This page provides general information about contested divorce in Indianapolis, IN and is not legal advice. Verify current statutes with Ind. Code §31-15-2-3 or consult a licensed Indiana attorney. Last reviewed March 2026.