How to Do Your Own Divorce in Ohio
For many, a pro se divorce is usually not an option. This is because many divorces involve disputes of property distribution and/or child custody. If a divorce has such disputes, then parties will need to seek the counsel of an attorney to help prepare and file the relevant motions. However, if you live in Ohio and have an uncontested or no-fault divorce, which means a divorce that does not involve any property allocation or any minor children, then it is possible to file a quick and cheap divorce pro se.
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Instructions
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Ensure that you meet the residency requirements to file for divorce in Ohio. According to state law, you must be a resident of the state for six months prior to filing. Also, ensure that you have appropriate grounds for a divorce. Ohio is not stringent with its requirements. You may simply state that you and your spouse are incompatible.
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Ensure that you are able to file a no-fault divorce. A no-fault divorce is one in which both spouses agree to the terms of the divorce upfront, circumventing the need for a divorce trial. The couple must not have any disputes regarding the division of assets and debt or the custody of children or child support payments.
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Obtain a copy of the petition for dissolution of marriage from your area's Court of Common Pleas.
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Fill out the form accordingly. You will need to include your name and address, your spouse's name and address, when and where you got married and the grounds for your divorce.
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Mail or deliver the form to the clerk at your area Court of Common Pleas. Include the required filing fee, which will vary in amount from jurisdiction to jurisdiction.
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Tips & Warnings
If you and your spouse currently share custody of any minor children, then you will not be able to file divorce by yourself. Instead, you should seek the counsel of an attorney experienced in Ohio divorce law.
References
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