Hiring an attorney, paying legal fees, and funding other aspects of a divorce is often costly and time consuming. That is why many people have turned to do it yourself divorce for their separation. This being said, many people also get caught without the paperwork, knowledge, and information they need. A judge or court will not look kindly on someone who has simply ordered a divorce kit online and filled it out, so be prepared by taking the following into consideration.
There is No Instant Divorce
Divorce is a lengthy process that may take up to many years to completely finalize, so any ads or websites trying to sell you a same-day divorce are completely phony. Trust your instincts. If an advertisement for do it yourself divorces seems too good to be true, it probably is. The best way to approach a do it yourself divorce is to take advantage of free consultations that many lawyers and attorneys provide. Often, they’ll sit down and talk to you for free initially. During this time, make sure to ask plenty of questions.
Be Wary of False Paperwork or Divorce Kits
All-in-one bundles of do it yourself divorce forms are sometimes a sketchy way to steal money from people simply looking for an easy at-home divorce. The best way to get you do it yourself divorce papers is from a local courthouse. Not only will you be getting the right paperwork from your state and county, you won’t have to worry about spending tons of money on a kit that may or may not have what you need. Often, these kits are generally, not state specified, leaving couples with the wrong set or copy of legal divorce paperwork.
Read the Small Print
During a DIY divorce, always make sure to read the fine print on every single paper you sign. Because you’re opting out of using a legal professional who knows the ins and outs of all the paperwork being used, you might look over a vital clause or statement that could leave you with nothing. Also, read all the fine print on any online or legal services you use. Sometimes, lingo, such as “prices starting at…” is deceptive in that those prices are only a establishment fee or a consultation price. Don’t get stuck being charged over what you were initially ready to pay.
Don’t Ask Court Staff Legal Questions
During a hearing, court employees are required by law to withhold giving any legal advice. Don’t be surprised when they tell you to get a lawyer or to find your information somewhere else. This is why you should have already done all of the research you need before your day in court. Many times, do it yourself divorcers show up to court unprepared, wasting many people’s time and energy.
Do It the Right Way Divorce
Do it yourself divorce can be a great way to save time and money for couples during separation, but choosing the right forms and information to know is imperative. Don’t get caught with phony legal forms. Likewise, make sure to read all of the fine print of any forms you sign that a lawyer hasn’t taken a look at.
