How to Get a Free Do It Yourself Divorce

Divorces can cost thousands of dollars in attorney's fees and court costs, adding more stress to an already stressful situation. There is an easy way to dramatically cut the cost on a divorce by simply eliminating the need for attorneys.

Difficulty: Moderately Challenging

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Divorce forms
• Access to the internet or a library
• Money for notary and court fees

1. Read the divorce regulations for your state. Every state in the United States has its own relegations for divorce. There is a link in the reference section that has the regulations listed by state.

2. Get the divorce forms. Local, college and university libraries carry up-to-date reference books on divorce with the forms included. The forms can be copied from these books. Some places on the Internet have the forms available for a fee.

3. Discuss all the terms of the divorce with your spouse. The couple must be in agreement about division of assets, children and debt acquired during the marriage.

4. Choose the correct forms and fill them out. There are different forms for different kinds of divorces. There are separate forms for couples with one child, multiple children or no children. These forms must be signed and notarized. Most banks have a notary on staff and may charge between $5 and $20. Make copies of all the forms for your personal files.

5. Take the forms to your county or parish clerk's office. To find the county or parish clerk's office, look in your local phone book or call your city hall. The clerk will file the forms and set a court date for you. If children are involved, you may have to file in family court as well. The clerk will set up an additional custody court date or send you to the family court to set up a court date. Filing fees vary by state; they can range from $49 to $150.

6. Appear at your court date with all of your forms, in case the judge needs to ask any questions. The judge will then rule on the divorce.

Tips & Warnings

• Discuss in detail the terms of the divorce with your spouse so there is no confusion or conflict later on.
• All the forms must be signed by both parties in the presence of a notary public to be valid.

[wingztv]

on 12/5/2008 If the couple has no children and can agree on a separation of thier belongings, this is smart. There is no need for an attorney if you closely follow the directions.

If you have children, this may not be wise. You want to look out for their needs if there is any disagreement between spouses.