What affects the cost of a divorce in Malta

“How much does a divorce cost in Malta?” is one of the first questions people ask, and it has no single answer. No honest figure can be given without knowing your situation. What can be said is what makes a case simpler or more complicated, and which costs sit outside your own advocate’s fees. Article numbers refer to the Civil Code, and “regulations” to the Family Court Proceedings Regulations, 2026.

Agreed or contested

The biggest factor is whether you and your spouse agree. A divorce by agreement is a joint application, and the mediator helps you settle the practical questions: the children, maintenance, the matrimonial home and your shared property (article 66I). A contested divorce generally involves more hearings and more steps, so it usually takes longer and costs more. See contested and consensual divorce.

The steps the law sets

If you are not already separated by a contract or a judgment, the process starts with mediation. Mediation generally involves at least six sessions within eight months, which can be extended by up to four months, although mediation that is unsuccessful may be ended earlier (regulations 19 and 37). After the court authorises you to proceed, the case itself has time limits for filing evidence: up to six months for each side, extendable on serious grounds (regulation 47). These are limits, not forecasts. Every additional session or hearing adds to the length of the case, and usually to the cost.

What else changes the picture

• How much you disagree about, and on which points. Children, money and property each add steps.
• Complex assets. A business, property abroad or pensions take longer to value and divide.
• Experts. A court expert’s report on the family’s needs can take four months, extendable by two (regulation 6).
• The court’s calendar.
• Whether one side does not take part. A party who does not attend mediation can be asked to explain, and the court can take it into account (regulation 22).

Costs that are not your advocate’s fees

• The mediator. The mediator’s fees depend on how the mediator is appointed, and we explain this at the outset (regulation 14).
• A children’s advocate can be appointed by the court (regulation 16).
• A support person acting as a court expert is paid by the Court Services Agency (regulation 5).
• Registration. A separation by public deed is registered in the Public Registry.

The practical way to get a number

Ask. At a first conversation we can look at your situation, say which of these factors apply and what that is likely to mean for time and cost, and explain our fees clearly before you decide anything. We will not promise a result or a date.