Is A DIY Divorce An Option For Me?

Getting a diy divorce is becoming more and more popular amongst divorcing couples. Why? Because by far the biggest cost of a divorce is the lawyer’s fees, and the longer the divorce process goes on for, the higher the bills go. Furthermore, since you can never be certain how long things will take, costs can often exceed what was originally quoted.

Consequently, many people consider what is known as a "Diy divorce" whereby the couple bypass the lawyers entirely and are left with what are only relatively small administration costs. Getting a diy divorce however, is highly dependent on both parties being on amicable terms.

Both of you must agree as regards what each is getting from the divorce as confusion and conflict down the line in this regard will probably necessitate lawyers being involved. If you're both agreed on getting a diy divorce however, it will make for a very cost and time effective divorce.

6 Steps To Getting A DIY Divorce

1. Divorce in your jurisdiction: Divorce law varies in different parts of the world so you will have to research the divorce procedure for your particular area. You can use the Internet, other divorcees, and the local library to obtain this information.

2. Divorce forms: Divorce forms are available from the Internet for a small fee. Alternatively, the libraries in your nearest university or college will carry reference books about divorce and have the necessary forms included. You can then just copy the forms from these.

3. Discuss things with your partner: As mentioned before, it's important you both agree on all terms of your divorce. This includes how you will divide any assets you both have such as equity in a house and investments/shares etc. If you have children, you must be agreed on who gets the role of primal custodian and what days and times the other spouse gets to have them for.

4. Fill in the forms: Once you have talked things through with your partner, fill in the forms. With this done, you must get the forms notarised. This means signing the forms in front of a chosen notary. Banks usually have notaries on hand and shouldn't charge more than $30 for the service. Oncethe forms have been filled in and signed, make photocopies of them for your own reference.

5. Submitting the forms: You will have to submit the filled in forms to the local clerk's office. You'll be able to locate them and their phone number in the phone book. The forms will be filed in the clerk’s office and they will arrange a date for the court hearing. If you have children with your partner, you might have to get the forms filed for a family court appearance as well. However, the clerk can take care of this for you. The filing fees at your clerk’s office should not rise above $200 and are usually much cheaper than this.

6. The court day: Go to court and bring all your forms with you. This is incase you need to refer to your forms should the judge put any questions to you. If you and your spouse have been in full agreement, the process will be relatively straightforward and the judge then will make a ruling on the case. This will usually be to the terms that you and your spouse have already both agreed to.