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How to File for Divorce in Georgia

Step-by-step guide to filing for divorce in Georgia. Requirements, costs, and timelines. Georgia follows equitable distribution.

Property Type

Equitable

Filing Fee

$200–$250

Median Cost

$9,500–$40,000

Annual Divorces

38,000+

Understanding How to File for Divorce in Georgia

To file for divorce in Georgia, you must meet Georgia’s residency requirement of 6 months. The filing fee is $200–$250. There is a mandatory waiting period of 30 days before the divorce can be finalized.

Georgia allows both no-fault and fault-based divorce. Fault grounds include: Adultery, Desertion, Cruel treatment, Habitual intoxication, Imprisonment, Mental incapacity. Filing on fault grounds may affect property division or alimony awards.

An uncontested divorce in Georgia typically costs $9,500 and takes 2–4 months. Contested cases average $40,000 and can take 12–18 months or longer. The governing statute is O.C.G.A. §19-5-3.

Common Questions

How long do you have to live in Georgia to file for divorce?
Georgia requires 6 months of residency before you can file for divorce. O.C.G.A. §19-5-3 governs the filing requirements.
Is Georgia a community property or equitable distribution state?
Georgia follows equitable distribution rules, meaning the court divides marital assets fairly but not necessarily equally.
How much does a divorce cost in Georgia?
Filing fees in Georgia range from $200–$250. The median total cost is approximately $9,500 for uncontested divorces and $40,000 for contested cases.
How long does a divorce take in Georgia?
Georgia has a mandatory waiting period of 30 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 Georgia?
Georgia 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 how to file for divorce in Georgia and is not legal advice. Verify current statutes with O.C.G.A. §19-5-3 or consult a licensed Georgia attorney. Last reviewed March 2026.