How to Create Your Own Divorce Papers
Divorce is a serious legal matter and should be undertaken with caution and care. State law requirements for what must be included in divorce pleadings vary widely, but with some research and preparation you may be able to handle your divorce without hiring an attorney.
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Instructions
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Decide if you are a good candidate for pro se divorce. You file for divorce pro se when you represent yourself in front of the court without an attorney. Factors to consider when deciding whether you should proceed pro se include the value of the assets of your marriage, whether or not you have children and whether you anticipate your spouse challenging the divorce. A pro se divorce is a good option for individuals without children and without significant jointly held assets.
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Visit your state's Supreme Court website. Often, the supreme court of your state will have divorce forms on their website. These documents are usually in a fill-in-the-blank format that allows you to accommodate the document to your circumstances. If you do not have access to the Internet, visit the clerk of the county court where you reside to inquire whether they have the forms in print.
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Contact your local legal aid organization. Legal aid organizations provide civil legal services for free or on a sliding scale for individuals who cannot afford legal counsel. In addition to traditional legal representation, many legal aid organizations hold pro se divorce clinics where knowledgeable staff members provide the necessary paperwork and instructions for filing for divorce. Find legal aid organizations in your community by contacting your local bar association.
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Contact area law schools. Many law schools operate civil clinics where third-year law students practice under the supervision of law school faculty. The law school in your community may hold pro se divorce clinics and/or provide divorce documents.
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Tips & Warnings
The dissolution of your marriage is a very serious matter that will affect your life for many years. Carefully consider hiring a competent divorce attorney to handle your divorce.
This article is for informational purposes only. This article in no way represents legal advice or counsel. Always consult a licensed attorney in your area before making important legal decisions.
