How Much Does It Cost to Modify a Divorce Decree?

Henriksen LawDivorce, Divorce Attorney

divorce decree cost in utah

When your divorce was finalized, the terms laid out in the divorce decree likely reflected your circumstances at the time.  

However, life rarely stays the same. Jobs change, people relocate, children grow, and financial situations evolve. If your current arrangement no longer fits your reality, you’re not alone—and you’re not out of options.

Whether you’re dealing with custody changes, child support adjustments, or disputes over spousal maintenance, knowing how to modify a divorce decree can help you take action before small problems become bigger ones.   

But the question many people ask first is: how much does it cost to modify a divorce decree?  

The answer depends on several factors, some you can control, others you can’t. 

In this post, we’ll walk you through the typical costs involved, what affects them, and how the process works in states like Utah.   

What is a Divorce Decree?  

First, let’s clarify what we mean by a ‘divorce decree’.  

A divorce decree is the final, legally binding document that ends a marriage. It’s signed by a judge and outlines the terms of the divorce, including:  

  • Division of assets and debts  
  • Spousal support (if applicable)  
  • Child custody and visitation  
  • Child support  
  • Health insurance responsibilities  
  • Any other obligations related to the marriage  

Once the decree is issued, both parties are expected to comply with its terms. That said, it is NOT set in stone.  

Can A Divorce Decree Be Modified?  

The short answer is, yes.  

You can petition the court to modify a divorce decree if there has been a substantial and material change in your situation that affects your ability to comply with or benefit from the current order.  

Common reasons for modifying a decree include:  

  • Job loss or major income changes  
  • One parent relocating  
  • Changes in a child’s needs (medical, educational, etc.)  
  • Health issues  
  • A parent’s refusal to follow the current custody agreement  

How Much Does It Cost to Modify a Divorce Decree?  

The cost to modify a divorce decree varies. Simple, uncontested changes are less expensive. On the other hand, disputes involving attorneys, hearings, or custody experts can become much more costly.  

Let’s break down the typical components.  

1) Court Filing Fees   

Every modification request starts with filing paperwork. In Utah, for example, the fee to file a motion to modify a divorce decree is typically around $100–$120, though this can vary slightly by district.  

2) Service of Process  

You’ll need to legally notify your ex-spouse of the modification request. If they agree, this may be as simple as having them sign a waiver. If not, you may need to pay a process server or use certified mail.  

3) Attorney Fees  

Attorney fees are typically the most significant expense in any post-divorce modification. If both parties agree, some attorneys offer flat-fee services for drafting and filing the paperwork.   

If the case is contested and goes to court, fees increase based on the amount of time and effort required to represent your position.  

4) Mediation Costs (If Required)  

In Utah, contested modifications often require mediation before going to court. Mediation gives both parties a chance to resolve the issue with the help of a neutral third party. If successful, it can save both time and money. However, it still adds to the cost of the overall process.  

5) Expert Witnesses or Evaluations  

If your request to modify the decree involves a dispute over custody, parenting time, or child well-being, the court may require a custody evaluation or professional input from an expert. These also raise the total cost of the modification process.  

What to Expect When Modifying a Divorce Decree in Utah  

The process to modify a divorce decree in Utah follows a defined series of steps. While the Utah court system provides resources for self-represented parties, understanding the process ahead of time can help you avoid common mistakes.  

1) Complete the Required Forms  

To begin, you’ll need to fill out several court-approved forms. These include a motion to modify, a written explanation of why the modification is needed, and updated financial disclosures if the request affects child support or alimony.  

2) File the Paperwork with the Court  

Once your forms are completed, submit them to the court where your original divorce decree was issued. You’ll need to pay a filing fee unless you’re approved for a fee waiver.  

3) Serve the Other Party  

After filing, you’re required to serve a copy of the documents to your ex-spouse. If they live in Utah, they have 21 days to respond. If they’re out of state, they have 30 days. Formal service rules must be followed. Text messages or casual emails don’t meet the legal standard.  

4) Attend Mediation (If There’s a Dispute)  

In case your ex contests the modification, Utah courts usually require both parties to attend mediation. A neutral third party will help you try to reach an agreement without going to court. If you reach a compromise, the agreement can be submitted for court approval.  

5) Go to a Hearing (If Necessary)  

If mediation doesn’t resolve the issue, the court will set a hearing. Both parties will present their case, and a judge will make the final decision. This step is more common when there are disagreements over custody, support, or other high-impact matters.  

Cost of Certified Copy of Divorce Decree  

In some cases, you may need to obtain a certified copy of your divorce decree, especially if you’re filing a modification request or dealing with insurance, taxes, or school documentation.   

The cost of a certified copy of a divorce decree is generally low. In Utah, for instance, it’s usually around $6–$10 per copy, though this varies by county.  

Tips for Keeping Costs Low  

Modifying a divorce decree doesn’t always have to come with high legal expenses. A few strategic decisions can make the process more financially manageable.  

1) Try Mediation Before Going to Court  

If you and your ex can resolve the issue through mediation, you can avoid costly hearings and limit legal fees. Even partial agreements can simplify the court process and reduce overall expenses.  

2) Reach an Agreement in Advance  

One of the most effective ways to cut costs is to agree on the modification before filing. If both of you are on the same page, the court process is simpler, faster, and requires less involvement from attorneys.  

3) Use Court-Approved DIY Forms  

If the changes you’re requesting are straightforward and uncontested, you may be able to use court-provided forms to handle the modification yourself. In Utah, for example, the Online Court Assistance Program (OCAP) offers self-help tools for modifying a divorce decree.  

4) Request a Fee Waiver  

Most state courts, including those in Utah, allow you to apply for a waiver based on financial hardship. If approved, this can eliminate one of the upfront costs of filing your request.  

Final Thoughts  

Modifying a divorce decree isn’t unusual, and in many cases, it’s the only way to make your current reality match your legal obligations.  

If you’re in Utah and need help modifying a divorce decree, or you’re unsure how much it costs to modify a divorce decree, it’s a good idea to speak with a local divorce attorney familiar with divorce law.  

At Henriksen & Henriksen, we’ve helped hundreds of clients successfully modify their divorce terms to better reflect their lives today. Schedule your consultation today and take the next step with confidence.