What Happens at Your First Family Law Consultation in Baton Rouge?
Your first family law consultation in Baton Rouge should not feel overwhelming. This guide explains [...]
Short answer: Most family lawyers in Baton Rouge charge between $250 and $450 per hour. Total costs usually fall between $1,500 for simple matters and $15,000 or more for contested custody or divorce cases. Court filing fees in East Baton Rouge Parish typically range from $250 to $500.
When people call Mayeux Law Firm, the first question they often ask is how much their case will cost. It is a fair question. Family law is stressful, and nobody wants surprises when it comes to attorney fees. Below is a clear breakdown of real Baton Rouge pricing, actual court fees, and the factors that influence what you may pay.
Most Baton Rouge family law attorneys bill between $250 and $450 per hour. These amounts align with the averages reported in the Louisiana State Bar Association.
Rates vary for reasons such as:
For example, I recently represented a parent who needed an emergency custody order. The case moved quickly and required extensive preparation and multiple hearings, which naturally increased the cost. In contrast, a simple uncontested divorce usually requires minimal attorney time and stays within a much lower range.
The typical retainer ranges from $3,000 to $7,500. A retainer acts like a deposit. Your attorney bills hourly against those funds. You do not pay this amount each month. You simply replenish the retainer if it runs low.
The typical cost is $1,500 to $3,500 plus filing fees. This applies when:
As an example, a couple recently came to me with everything already agreed upon. Their total fees came to around $2,000, plus court costs. Cases like this move quickly and predictably.
If you and your spouse already agree on custody, property, and support, an uncontested divorce may save you time and money. Our office can walk you through the process, prepare the documents and help you avoid delays.
Contested divorces usually cost between $8,000 and $20,000 or more.
Costs rise when the case involves:
If custody becomes the central dispute, the case can become more expensive. A relocation issue, for example, can drastically increase the need for hearings, documentation, and expert input.
Expect hourly rates between $250 and $450 and total fees ranging from $5,000 to $20,000 or more, depending on the level of conflict. If communication between parents breaks down or safety concerns arise, the case will naturally require more time and resources.
According to the East Baton Rouge Clerk of Court, filing fees typically range from $250 to $500. Here are common examples:
| Service | Typical Cost | Notes |
| Uncontested Divorce | $1,500 to $3,500 plus fees | Straightforward paperwork |
| Contested Divorce | $8,000 to $20,000 or more | Conflict increases cost |
| Custody Case | $5,000 to $20,000 or more | Experts and hearings add cost |
| Hourly Rate | $250 to $450 | Based on experience and complexity |
| Retainer | $3,000 to $7,500 | Funds are billed against as work is done |
| EBR Filing Fees | $250 to $500 | Varies by filing type |
People often have similar questions when they are budgeting for a divorce or custody case. These answers are designed to give you quick, practical guidance based on what we see most often in Louisiana family courts.
An uncontested divorce may take only a few weeks. Contested matters, especially custody cases, can take several months or longer. The timeline depends on court schedules, discovery, and how quickly both parties cooperate.
Attorneys can provide a range based on experience with similar cases, but exact totals depend on the conflict level, delays, discovery, and how the other party behaves throughout the case.
It is possible in some situations. Louisiana courts may award fees when one party acts unreasonably or violates court orders. These awards are not guaranteed and depend on the specifics of the case.
If you want a clear understanding of your potential costs, talk directly with a Baton Rouge family law attorney. Every case is different, and even small facts can shift what you might spend.
You can review your options on our Family Law Services page or use the free consultation form on this page to get specific answers about your situation. Mayeux Law Firm is here to help you move forward with clarity and confidence.
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