DIY Divorce

Downloading documents will help you achieve a divorce on your own.

Getting a divorce can create financial hardship, especially when you factor in lawyers' fees. While no one wants to go through the pain and hassle of a divorce, you can make it easier on yourself and your spouse if you both agree to complete the process on your own. As long as both partners agree to an uncontested divorce, the division of property and custody of any children, they will have permission to file for divorce without a lawyer.

Things You'll Need

• Settlement plan
• Downloaded divorce papers
• Court hearing date
• Divorce decree

Instructions

1. 

   Research your state and local laws regarding divorce proceedings.

   Research your state laws to make sure they allow you to file your divorce papers on your own. Read any divorce laws that apply to your situation, and if there is something you are not sure of, consult a lawyer.

2. 

   Find a reputable website to download your divorce papers.

   Find a reputable online source for your state's divorce papers. You will find multiple websites offering free divorce papers, but make sure your state has certified those papers for use before downloading or registering with the site. Check out websites such as legalzoom.com and DivorceLawInfo.com for information accredited by the Better Business Bureau.

3. 

   Settle all issues like child custody before filing for divorce.

   Settle all your property division, child custody, alimony and child-support payments ahead of time, as well as any other outstanding issues.

4. 

   Download the divorce papers you require.

   Download the divorce papers you need, and fill out all required information with your spouse. Make sure all the information is accurate, truthful and fair to both parties.

5. 

   File a petition to divorce and any local and state documents.

   File a petition to divorce as well as any other required documents with the appropriate court. Make sure you have completed all paperwork before you submit anything.

6. 

   Attend a divorce hearing.

   Attend the divorce hearing. If you or your spouse can't attend the hearing, check to see if your state allows for an affidavit in lieu of attendance.

7. 

   Receive the divorce decree.

   Ask the court clerk when you can expect to receive a copy of the divorce decree. Keep a copy of the decree once the divorce is granted. Bear in mind that a judge may still deny you a divorce, even if you and your spouse agree on everything.

Tips & Warnings

• Consult a lawyer if you have any questions about your divorce.

• Budget for your divorce. You may be filing your papers on your own, but it will still cost you to end your marriage.

• Only download or purchase divorce kits from a reputable source, and make sure they adhere to your local and state government requirements.

References

• My Divorce USA: America's #1 Do it Yourself Divorce Forms Website
• Divorce law Info: Welcome to the Divorce Law Information Center

Resources

• Smart Divorce: Do-It-Yourself Divorce, Is it For You?, 2010