Alaska Divorce Filing Checklist 2025

Alaska stands apart from most states with one of the nation's most accessible divorce filing systems. With no minimum residency requirement, two flexible filing pathways (divorce or dissolution), a $250 filing fee, and innovative options like informal trials, Alaska provides practical solutions for ending a marriage—especially valuable given the state's geography and military population.

No Minimum Residency Requirement

Unlike most states that require 60 to 180 days of residency, Alaska allows you to file immediately. Under Alaska court rules, either spouse must simply be physically present in Alaska at filing with the intent to remain—no waiting period required.

Military-friendly: Service members stationed in Alaska for 30+ consecutive days are treated as Alaska residents for filing purposes, making Alaska particularly accessible for military families.

Two Pathways: Divorce vs. Dissolution

Alaska offers two distinct ways to end a marriage, each suited to different situations:

Dissolution of Marriage (Simplified)

If both spouses agree on all issues, file a joint dissolution petition (DR-1 with children, DR-2 without). Requirements:

• Complete written agreement on custody, support, property, and debts
• Both spouses sign the petition
• Attend a brief court hearing (at least 30 days after filing)
• If unable to locate spouse after diligent search, one-spouse dissolution available with alternate service

Divorce (Traditional)

When spouses disagree, file a Complaint for Divorce using form DR-817 (with children) or DR-822 (without children). This process includes:

• Service on defendant (certified mail or process server)
• 20-day answer deadline (40 days if served outside U.S.)
• Mandatory financial disclosures within 45 days
• Settlement options (mediation, Early Resolution Program)
• Trial if no settlement reached

Filing Fees and Costs

Alaska Superior Court filing fees as of May 2023:

• Filing fee: $250 (divorce, dissolution, custody, or paternity cases)
• Modification fee: $75 (custody/support modifications when parties disagree)
• Fee waiver available: Complete form TF-920 if you cannot afford the fee

Additional costs may include process server ($65-$150), parent education classes ($15-$50 per parent), and mediation fees if using private services.

Estimate Your Alaska Divorce Costs

Use our calculator to estimate filing fees, service costs, and other expenses based on your specific situation. To discover additional cost-saving strategies, read our comprehensive guide on ways to save money during divorce.

Automatic Domestic Relations Standing Order

Every divorce case automatically triggers a Domestic Relations Procedural (Standing) Order upon service, immediately prohibiting both parties from:

• Removing minor children from Alaska without written consent or court order
• Selling, transferring, or disposing of marital property (except for necessities or regular business)
• Changing or canceling insurance coverage for parties or children

Violations can significantly impact final custody and property decisions.

Unique Alaska Features: Informal Trials

Alaska offers an innovative informal trial option (form DR-905) where:

• Parties speak directly to the judge rather than through attorneys
• The judge asks questions conversationally
• Evidence rules are relaxed
• Process is typically faster and less expensive

Both parties and the judge must consent. Many self-represented litigants find this format more accessible than formal trials.

Step-by-Step Filing Process

1. Determine pathway: Dissolution (agreed) vs. Divorce (contested)
2. Gather documents: Financial records, asset/debt lists, child information
3. Complete forms: Download from courts.alaska.gov/forms
4. File with Superior Court: Pay $250 fee or request waiver
5. Serve defendant: Certified mail (restricted delivery) or licensed process server
6. Exchange disclosures: Within 45 days of answer (divorce cases)
7. Attend hearing: Minimum 30-day waiting period before finalization
8. File VS-401 certificate: Original archival form required to record divorce

Timeline Expectations

For a comprehensive breakdown of Alaska's divorce process from start to finish, see our guide on Alaska divorce timelines.

• Minimum waiting period: 30 days from filing to final decree
• Uncontested dissolution: Typically 45-75 days (docket-dependent)
• Contested divorce: 6-15 months, depending on complexity and court calendar
• Service deadline: Attempt within 120 days or risk dismissal

Electronic Filing and Remote Options

Alaska is rolling out TrueFiling eFiling statewide through 2026:

• Attorneys must eFile where available
• Self-represented litigants may eFile but are not required to
• Certain original documents (VS-401) must still be delivered in person
• Many hearings conducted remotely via Zoom—especially helpful given Alaska's distances