Options for navigating your divorce
Unfortunately your marriage has come to an end, and you have decided to get divorced. But you’re worried about expensive attorney’s fees and the overall cost for divorce. Plus, you’ve looked online at some DIY divorce options. While the price seems inexpensive you don’t quite understand what you are getting for your money.
Divorce can be difficult and confusing to navigate on your own, especially when it comes to divorce paperwork. Some online services provide the paperwork with minimal guidance, some offer mediation, and others give little to no guidance. But if you’re considering filing for divorce on your own, there are some tricks and tips you should know first.
You may not need an attorney
Do you need an attorney to get divorced? The short answer is no. However, understanding the basics of divorce law is important in making good decisions. While you may not need an attorney to handle your entire divorce, it may be wise to consult an attorney to understand the basic principles of divorce as they relate to child custody, child support, spousal support, and division of assets. Additionally, if you’re facing a contested divorce with complex issues hiring an attorney is the best choice. The bottom line is to educate yourself on divorce 101 prior to starting your divorce.
Tackling divorce paperwork
Divorce paperwork can be overwhelming. The best tactic for completing your divorce paperwork is to categorize it into steps. Step 1 is filing for divorce. Step 2 is completion of your financial disclosures. Step 3 is determination of how you are going to handle your divorce issues with regard to custody, support, and division of assets. Step 4 is finalizing your divorce.
Filing the appropriate paperwork at the right time is key. Most court paperwork gets rejected due to small errors; a box was not checked, you missed filing a key document in the process, or you missed needed information on your forms. An experienced family law attorney or a paralegal can assist you with what documents should be filed when, proper service of those documents, and general guidance. However, if you cannot afford assistance most courts have a self-help center and if you are willing to take the time and have a lot of patience, they will give you general guidance.
If you hire a divorce attorney, be sure to ask questions. Find out what their average case costs and what different options they might provide. Are they litigious or settlement minded? Litigation is expensive so you want an attorney that is settlement minded but not afraid to walk into court if that is your only option. Some attorneys will conduct mediation in which they represent both husband and wife as a neutral party. Mediation is often less expensive and quicker for couples whom agree to the process. Another approach if money is tight is to consult with an attorney but to represent yourself. There is no one size fits all divorce. Do your homework to decide what is best for your situation.
Getting the right help
Divorce can impact the rest of your life, so it’s important to have an experienced family law team review your case and advise you on the best options. A flat fee divorce may be best if you were in a short-term marriage with no kids and are looking for a simple divorce. But if you have a contested divorce, or a divorce with significant assets such as a house or investments, then mediation might be a better option.
Green Giraffe Legal Services offers unique flat fee divorce options and mediation services for couples who want control over the cost of their divorce. Pay-as-you-go plans are also available for additional budgeting assistance. Call today to learn more about their approach to divorce and how they might assist you.