How To Get a Fast, Easy, Legal Divorce
The rules governing divorce vary slightly between states, but the basic process is the same in all U.S. jurisdictions. You must prove that you are qualified for a divorce, show that you are a resident of the state and file paperwork with your local court outlining demographic and financial information on you and your spouse. To keep the process moving along quickly and easily, know what the law requires you to do before you before you consult with a divorce lawyer or begin preparing your divorce papers on your own.
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Instructions
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Research your state's divorce laws. Before you file for divorce, you will need to make sure that you meet your state's residency requirements and have valid grounds for divorce.
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Visit the Clerk of the Court in your jurisdiction. The Clerk's Office can provide you with copies of divorce forms, including a petition for divorce, child custody affidavit and financial affidavits that will allow you to request child support and alimony.
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Determine whether you need to retain counsel. If your spouse is not contesting the divorce and both of you agree on how to divide your assets and debts, then you may be able to file your paperwork without consulting with an attorney. If you disagree on any major issues, bring your completed paperwork from the clerk office to an attorney. Having your paperwork ready in advance of your meeting will make it easier and quicker for your lawyer to draft your court documents.
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Prepare for the meeting with your attorney ahead of time. Before you meet with your attorney for the first time, compile copies of your and your spouse's financial documents such as pay stubs, tax returns, mortgage information and credit card statements. Write down any questions you have. Preparing early can help the process move along faster.
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Consider mediation in a contested divorce. Reaching an agreement out of the courtroom with the assistance of a court mediator can speed up the divorce process.
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Tips & Warnings
Many websites offer packages of forms that they claim will allow you to handle your own divorce quickly and at little cost. Before you file your paperwork using these programs, ask the Clerk of the Court to review them to make sure they are valid in your state.
