CAN I FILE FOR DIVORCE WITHOUT A LAWYER?

Here in California, the answer is “Yes”.   California law does not require that you hire an attorney.  But is filing without one the right choice for you?  In this article, we’ll go over 3 points to help you decide.

  

CONTESTED OR UNCONTESTED

Will your divorce be contested?   Unless you and your spouse agree on all major issues such as the division of property and debt, child custody & visitation, or domestic support, you may want to hire an attorney to protect your interests.

TIME INVOLVED

Filing without an attorney will save you money but it will cost you time.   The courts have done a great job providing information on their websites.  But let’s be realistic.  You’ll need to do your homework.  Be prepared to spend many hours learning the local rules and procedures on how to fill out and file your paperwork with the court.

PAPERWORK

How are your clerical skills?  Are you good at following instructions?  Unless your court papers are filled out correctly, they may be rejected by the court.  This could delay your case and incur extra costs to correct the errors.  

Still undecided?  Consult a Divorce attorney.  Most attorneys offer free consultations to assess your case.

If it’s the paperwork that has you worried you may consider hiring a Paralegal or Legal Document Assistant.  They cannot give you legal advice but having an expert prepare your paperwork can save you valuable time and possible headaches. 

Whether you decide to file with or without an attorney, you’ll need to gather several documents. ⇛ DOWNLOAD YOUR FREE CHECKLIST to help you get organized.

by Cherryl Rudy, AVBA at Attorneys Best Choice Document Services, LDA#459

About the Author:  Cherryl Rudy has been assisting clients with their legal document preparation at Attorneys Best Choice for over a decade. Specializing in Divorce & Family Law, Bankruptcy, and Real Estate Law, 

Attorneys Best Choice is a registered, certified and bonded Legal Document Assistant in Orange County, CA. 

RESOURCES

FREE download:  Divorce or Legal SeparationChecklist 

Related articles:  5 Simple Steps to Hiring the Perfect Paralegal,   Divorce on a Budget,   

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