Service Pricing

Our Fees Explained

If you’re considering a divorce by publication, one of the first questions you probably have is:

“How much does this cost — and what exactly am I paying for?”

Our approach is simple: clear, flat fees with no surprises. Unlike private investigators and lawyers who often bill by the hour, our Missing Spouse Divorce service provides predictable pricing and a defined process so you know exactly what you’re getting.

But cost is only one part of the story. To understand why our process is structured the way it is, it helps to look at what courts actually require when a spouse is missing.

Why Pricing Transparency Matters

Traditional legal services rarely provide upfront clarity. Private investigators may charge $75–$150 per hour, and attorneys often bill $1,500–$3,500+ for divorce by publication cases. Since missing spouse cases are unpredictable, the final bill can balloon quickly.

We’ve designed a flat-fee model that removes uncertainty. Each phase of the process has a fixed cost, and together they cover the essential steps that every court expects before authorizing divorce by publication.

Flat Fees — No Hidden Costs

Here’s how our pricing works:

Although this page focuses on cost, understanding the workflow helps show what you’re actually paying for.

1. Search & Report (Phase I)
   - Licensed investigator runs a professional search.
   - Results delivered in 2–3 business days.
2. Extended Diligence & Affidavit (Phase II)
   - Your own prior efforts are documented and combined with the investigator’s findings.
   - Additional checks are logged.
   - A sworn affidavit is drafted in your state’s required format.
   
3. Notarization
   - The affidavit must be signed under oath.
   - Where permitted, this can be completed online via secure identity verification and video conference.
   
4. Filing & Publication (Client’s Next Steps)
   - With the affidavit in hand, you need to have other documents required for the Divorce by Publication drafted and notarized,    file them and request service by publication in your state court.
   - Courts typically require 3–4 weeks of newspaper publication plus a waiting period (20–30 days).
   - Filing fees and publication costs are separate.
   

Timeline

On average, our two-phase process takes 2–3 weeks.

• Investigator’s report: 2–3 business days.
  
• Diligence documentation and affidavit: 7–9 business days after intake is complete.
  
• Notarization: usually same day once the affidavit is finalized.
  

After that, timing depends on your local court’s schedule and statutory publication requirements.

Why This Matters for Your Case

Courts across the U.S. require diligent search before approving divorce by publication. Without clear documentation, you risk:

• Delays: Judges may reject incomplete affidavits and order additional steps.
  
• Dismissal: In some states, weak affidavits can cause the petition to be dismissed.
• Future challenges: If your spouse reappears, they may contest the divorce if diligence wasn’t properly proven.
  

By completing both phases, you’ll have:

• A professional investigator’s report that strengthens your credibility.
  
• A state-specific affidavit that satisfies your court’s requirements.
  
• A clear path to request divorce by publication.
  

Why Flat Fees Make a Difference

For clients already under emotional stress, unpredictability in costs can be overwhelming. That’s why flat fees matter:

• You know the total before you begin.
  
• There are no surprise hourly charges.
  
• You can plan financially, without worrying about “what ifs.”
  

By contrast, traditional PI/lawyer routes can double or triple in cost depending on how long the search drags on.

Important Disclaimer

Our service prepares the search report and affidavit of search efforts according to court requirements. We do not provide legal advice or representation. Final approval of service and divorce is always up to the court. Additional steps may be required depending on your jurisdiction.

Get Started Today

Don’t let uncertainty stall your case. With our clear, flat pricing and step-by-step process, you’ll know exactly what you’re paying for — and why each step matters.