Can you really file for divorce online?
In recent years, web-based divorce services have grown in popularity as a fast and easy alternative for simple, uncontested divorces. These services work by providing limited assistance with the steps of filing divorce paperwork in order to avoid going to court. But can you file for divorce online without an attorney? The short answer is yes, but there are many reasons to consult with a divorce attorney before filing for divorce online or to consider working with a company that is overseen by divorce attorney’s.
For example, you and your spouse might struggle over the terms of your settlement, common issues are child custody, spousal support, and basic property division. Yet there are other issues that an online service or paralegal might miss, such as how to handle the ownership interest in a business or a partial interest in real property to name a couple. Furthermore, your divorce (online or not) is legally binding. Once your divorce is finalized, it can only be changed if there is a significant reason to do so. An attorney can help you make informed decisions, so you have no regrets and avoid paying more to fix your divorce in the future.
But don’t I need to go to court?
Many web-based divorce services advertise that filing for divorce online will circumnavigate the court process. However, family law is very procedural and a mis- step in the process can cause many future issues. A simple mistake in the filing, or lack of specific requirements in the state or county where you’re filing may cause a need to go to court to correct things or simply move your case forward. You may also run the risk of your case being dismissed or a party being defaulted.
And those affordable costs for filing online? Online divorce services claim to be cheaper alternatives to hiring an attorney. But many of those forms can be difficult to understand, and you may waste time and money on researching complex legal terms related to your case. That time and money could be used to hire an experienced divorce consultant who can advise you of your options and alternative divorce solutions. Look for mediation services or flat fee divorce options but make sure to know what services you are getting for what you paid. And ask questions about attorney involvement in the process or how it would work if you had legal questions.
Get the answers you need
Because divorce can be a difficult process, it’s easy to understand the allure of getting divorced online. But while internet divorce platforms are designed for a DIY divorce, they cannot provide legal advice. They can only provide the paperwork. The right family law service can minimize costs with the use of a paralegal but also has experienced attorneys on staff that can explain important legal issues, oversee necessary paperwork, draft your final Marital Settlement Agreement and get the best outcome for your divorce.
If you are ready to file for divorce, contact Green Giraffe Legal Services. We offer flat fee divorce services and unbundled legal services that allow you to control the cost and outcome of your Marital Settlement Agreement. You deserve the best representation at every step of your divorce.