Arizona DIY Divorce Options and Resources

Arizona gives self-represented filers multiple ways to handle an uncontested divorce without hiring an attorney. Between the statewide eFileAZ portal, the AZTurboCourt guided-interview system, and free Self-Service Center forms at every Superior Court, the tools for a DIY divorce are more accessible than in most states. This guide walks you through each pathway, the costs involved, and when mediation may be worth considering.

Who Qualifies for a DIY Divorce in Arizona

Arizona is a no-fault divorce state, which means neither spouse needs to prove wrongdoing. The sole ground for dissolution is that the marriage is “irretrievably broken” under A.R.S. § 25-312. At least one spouse must be domiciled in Arizona for 90 consecutive days before filing.

A DIY approach works best when both spouses agree on all major terms: property division, debt allocation, and—if applicable—child custody and support. If your case is uncontested, you can often complete the entire process using free court resources. For a side-by-side comparison of uncontested versus contested scenarios, see our Arizona uncontested vs. contested divorce guide.

Arizona's Online Filing Tools

Arizona offers two statewide digital platforms for self-represented filers:

• eFileAZ — the statewide electronic filing portal operated by the Arizona Administrative Office of the Courts. You can file your petition, upload supporting documents, and pay fees online from any county.
• AZTurboCourt — a free guided-interview tool that asks plain-language questions and generates the correct court forms based on your answers. It covers dissolution petitions, parenting plans, and child support worksheets.

Every Superior Court also operates a Self-Service Center where you can pick up blank forms, use public computers, and get procedural guidance from staff. The Arizona Courts Self-Service Center hosts downloadable versions of every statewide pattern form.

Arizona also authorizes Certified Legal Document Preparers (CLDPs) who can prepare your forms for a flat fee, typically $200–$400. CLDPs are licensed by the Arizona Supreme Court but cannot give legal advice or represent you in court.

Summary Consent Decree: The Fast Track

If you and your spouse agree on everything, Arizona Rule of Family Law Procedure 45.1 allows you to file a Summary Consent Decree. This streamlined process lets the court enter your divorce decree without a hearing, provided both parties sign the consent decree and all required documents. Combined with the mandatory 60-day waiting period under A.R.S. § 25-329, a fully agreed case can finalize in roughly 70–90 days. For a detailed breakdown of each milestone, see our Arizona divorce timeline.

Filing Fees and Costs

The statewide filing fee is $261 for the petition and $172 for a response (effective December 28, 2024). Service of process typically costs $50–$100 if done by a private process server, or your spouse can accept service voluntarily to eliminate this expense.

If you cannot afford the filing fee, you may request a fee waiver or deferral by filing Form AOFSSA7F. For a pro se filer using free court forms, the total out-of-pocket cost can stay under $500.

Estimate Your Arizona Divorce Costs

Use the calculator below to get a personalized estimate of your total divorce costs, including filing fees, service expenses, and potential mediation costs.

When to Consider Mediation

Arizona courts can order mediation in custody and parenting-time disputes under A.R.S. § 25-381.09. Most counties also offer Conciliation Services that provide low-cost or free mediation for families. Even when not required, private mediation is often faster and less expensive than litigating property or support disputes.

For step-by-step filing instructions, forms, and the automatic Preliminary Injunction that takes effect the moment you file, see our Arizona divorce filing checklist.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I file for divorce in Arizona without a lawyer?
Yes. Arizona provides free statewide forms, the AZTurboCourt guided-interview tool, and Self-Service Centers at every Superior Court. Certified Legal Document Preparers can also prepare your paperwork for a flat fee.

How long does a DIY divorce take in Arizona?
The minimum is about 70 days: 60 days for the mandatory waiting period under A.R.S. § 25-329 plus processing time. Fully agreed cases using a Summary Consent Decree typically finalize in 70–90 days. Contested cases can take 9–15 months or longer.

What is the total cost of an Arizona DIY divorce?
Filing fees total $433 ($261 petition plus $172 response). Pro se filers using free court forms and voluntary service can keep total costs under $500. Hiring a Certified Legal Document Preparer adds $200–$400.