Uncontested divorce in Fairfax County: cost and timeline
An uncontested divorce in Fairfax County is one where you and your spouse agree on everything: parenting, support, the house, retirement accounts and debts. The court filing fee is $94. Most of the real cost, and most of the time, goes into reaching that agreement, and mediation is often the most affordable way to get there.
What "uncontested" means in Virginia
Virginia allows a no-fault divorce after you have lived separate and apart without interruption for one year, or for six months if you have a signed separation agreement and no minor children (Va. Code § 20-91).
Divorces for Fairfax County residents are filed in the Fairfax County Circuit Court. When both spouses have signed a separation agreement, the case can usually be finalized without a contested trial.
What an uncontested divorce costs in Fairfax County
Your total cost has three parts.
| Cost | What to expect |
|---|---|
| Court filing fee | $94 to file a divorce complaint in Fairfax Circuit Court, as of October 1, 2026 (fee schedule). Service and recording fees may apply. |
| Reaching an agreement | The biggest variable. Olive Branch family mediation packages run $1,200 to $5,400 for both spouses combined, usually split evenly. |
| Attorney review and paperwork | Each spouse is encouraged to have their own attorney review the agreement. Many attorneys offer a flat fee for review or for drafting and filing the final paperwork. Ask for a quote up front. |
Olive Branch family packages, for both spouses together:
- Family Clarity Session, $1,200 (about $600 each): up to 4 hours. Best when you agree on most things and need help with one or two issues.
- Full Family Mediation, $3,600 (about $1,800 each): up to 14 hours, including up to three joint sessions and a written Memorandum of Understanding for attorney review. The most common choice for couples with children.
- Complex Family Mediation, $5,400 (about $2,700 each): up to 22 hours, for businesses, significant assets or higher conflict.
See all family mediation packages or the Virginia divorce mediation cost guide for a full comparison with litigation.
How long it takes
- Separation period: six months or one year, depending on your situation. You can mediate during this time.
- Mediation: most couples finish Full Family Mediation in three to six weeks.
- Attorney review and signing: usually a few weeks, depending on your attorneys' schedules.
- Filing and final decree: timing depends on the court's docket once your paperwork is complete.
For more detail, read How long does divorce take in Virginia?
When you agree on most things, but not everything
Many couples call their divorce uncontested until they get to the details. Common sticking points in Fairfax County include:
- Who stays in the house, and whether to sell or refinance
- How to divide retirement accounts, including federal TSP and FERS benefits
- Parenting time around the Fairfax County Public Schools calendar
- Child support, and who covers activities, childcare and health insurance
A mediator helps you work through these one at a time, so your divorce stays uncontested and out of a courtroom. Sessions are held in person in Northern Virginia or virtually.
Is mediation right for you?
Mediation works best when both spouses can speak for themselves and want to reach an agreement. It may not be appropriate where there is abuse, coercion or a safety concern. Every case is screened privately at intake.
Frequently asked questions
How much does an uncontested divorce cost in Fairfax County?
The Fairfax Circuit Court filing fee is $94. Beyond that, most of the cost is reaching an agreement and having it reviewed. Olive Branch mediation packages run $1,200 to $5,400 for both spouses combined, plus each spouse's own attorney review.
How long does an uncontested divorce take in Virginia?
You must first be separated for one year, or six months if you have a signed separation agreement and no minor children. Mediation can happen during the separation period, so your agreement is ready when you are eligible to file.
Do we need a lawyer if our divorce is uncontested?
Virginia doesn't require one, but each spouse is encouraged to have their own attorney review the agreement before signing. The mediator stays neutral and doesn't give legal advice to either spouse.
Can we mediate virtually?
Yes. Sessions can be held in person in Northern Virginia or virtually, which helps when spouses live apart or have busy schedules.
Talk it through, free
Book a free 15-minute consultation to see whether mediation fits your situation, or call (703) 727-8839.
Book a free consultEstimate your costThis guide is general information, not legal advice. Olive Branch Mediation does not represent either spouse.