In this Internet age divorce is easy and possible just by a click of the button – This is what some people think about divorcing online. What is online Divorce? Online Divorce is also called the Do-It-Yourself Divorce. It is simple but you cannot get your divorce just ‘by a click of the button.’ It is simple in the sense, your can obtain the legal forms online, fill them up and submit them online. You will have detailed instructions and assistance as you fill them along the way. Instead of paying a huge sum to a lawyer you are doing these by yourself. It is just like doing your tax papers yourself instead of hiring an accountant.
Is there an eligibility criterion? Anyone who is filing for a divorce can apply online. Any couple could utilize these services if do-it-yourself divorce is applicable them.
A. If both the husband and the wife agree and wish to end their marriage in a peaceful manner
B. If a couple would want to cooperate enough to form an amicable agreement regarding issues on property division and related bills, child custody, visitation, and child support, etc.
C. If both could state that they have been leading a decent life free of any spouse or child abuse
D. If the partners are not in active military service
E. If neither of you have any previous legal proceedings instituted against you for a divorce, legal separation, child custody, or domestic violence between you and your spouse
F. If you have been married for over 5 years, and if you are currently employed and capable of self support
G. If you should say ‘no’ to any of the above, it is advisable that you seek the advice of a legal attorney.
What is the procedure?
Look up for ‘Divorce’ websites. Read through to understand their terms and conditions before you start. You may download the required forms, answer the questions and submit online. The firm reviews your answers and formats your paperwork as per your court’s requirements. You would receive the completed paperwork by mail in about 5 – 10 days time, ready to be faxed, mailed or taken by you in person to your local courthouse. You attend your final hearing and get your judgment on your divorce decree.
Fact is that you can only get the forms with a click of a button. You still have to go through the court system to get a divorce judgment. There are some counties that accept the application for divorce by mail or fax. For example, all counties in California accept them by mail or fax. You may check with your country clerk’s office to see if they would accept your filings this way.
During online processing, if the partners disagree on some issue, it is best to seek an attorney or a mediator for assistance. It is highly advisable to go for legal help if you have come to find out that your spouse had filed legal papers for divorce outside the context of your settlement discussions or if he has already retained an attorney.
The costs differ and may range from $199 to $400 or a little more but not as high as engaging a private attorney. Can you compare this to the average hourly rate of $228 for attorney fees? These fees generally do not include the court filing fees, which again varies by county.
Divorcing on line is definitely a lot cheaper if both partners can come to mutual agreements.
