To get straight to the point— yes, it is possible to file your own divorce and complete the process without an attorney. However, before you try your hand at a DIY divorce, you need to understand the potential pitfalls.
There are several reasons why someone might want to avoid getting an attorney for their divorce. One of the most common being that you don’t want to waste your financial resources on expensive legal fees. It can also be challenging finding a lawyer who’s thinking about your best interests rather than lining up their pockets.
Am I a Good Candidate for DIY Divorce?
Do you check off these boxes?
You and your spouse agree on all issues of divorce, including property division, child custody, child support, and alimony
You have a complete overview of your family’s assets and debts
You do not share complex assets
You and your spouse have created a fair and reasonable parenting plan that covers your parenting responsibilities and visitation rights
You have the time to research your state’s divorce laws, gather the documentation, and follow through with court filings and appearances
When you go through a divorce, your future is on the line. By choosing a divorce without a lawyer, you are putting that on the line. With that disclaimer in mind, there are still alternative solutions that may work for you.
Consider Mediation
If you and your spouse are on relatively amicable terms and are willing to resolve your issues, you may want to consider mediation. You can achieve your goals and reach a consensus under the guidance of a mediator, a professional who can bring closure to many controversial divorce issues. Mediation allows you to save money on legal fees while offering many other benefits.
When your marriage ends and divorce is on the horizon, the best thing you can do is research. Consult with lawyers and mediators and think about your overall divorce goals.
If you want to know if mediation is the best option for you, call our Colorado Springs attorney-mediator at (719) 259-5944 to set up an appointment.