Family Law Resources

Filing for Divorce in Idaho

Residency Requirements

At least one spouse must have been an Idaho resident for at least 6 weeks before filing.

Waiting Period

20 days after filing before divorce can be finalized.

Grounds

• No-fault: Irreconcilable differences


• Fault: Adultery, cruelty, felony conviction, etc.

Family Courts in Idaho

Family law cases are heard in District Court.

Court Structure

• 44 counties


• 7 judicial districts

Major Courts

• Ada County (Boise): 4th Judicial District


• Canyon County: 3rd Judicial District

Family Court Services

Mediation and evaluation services available.

Filing Fees in Idaho

Fee Schedule

• Divorce filing fee: $207


• Service fees: Additional costs vary

Fee Waiver

Motion for Fee Waiver available for those who cannot afford fees.

Typical Costs

• Uncontested: $500-$2,500


• Contested: $5,000-$20,000+

Free Legal Resources in Idaho

Idaho Legal Aid Services

• Website: idaholegalaid.org


• Phone: 208-336-8980

Online Resources

• Idaho Free Legal Answers: idaho.freelegalanswers.org


• Idaho Courts Self-Help: isc.idaho.gov

Critical Deadlines in Idaho

Waiting Period

20 days after filing before divorce can be finalized.

Response Deadline

21 days to respond after being served.

Residency

6 weeks residency required before filing.

Idaho's Unique Family Law Features

Short Residency

Idaho requires only 6 weeks residency - one of the shortest in the nation.

Short Waiting Period

Only 20 days waiting period - faster than most states.

Community Property

Idaho is a community property state - marital assets divided 50/50.

No Joint Custody Presumption

Unlike some states, Idaho has no statutory presumption favoring joint custody.