A DIY (Do-It-Yourself) divorce is often attractive for couples who wish to divorce but want to avoid the high costs and drawn-out timeline of a traditional divorce, like hiring a lawyer. While the prospect of handling the divorce process on your own may seem beneficial, it could be more difficult than you anticipate, especially if errors are made. Understanding and avoiding the mistakes commonly made in DIY divorces is crucial in ensuring that you do not waste time and resources during your divorce. For more information, set up a consultation with a Union County divorce attorney today.
What is a DIY Divorce?
A DIY divorce is an uncontested divorce where the spouses decide to represent themselves and forgo legal representation. In an uncontested divorce, both spouses agree on all terms, like property division, child custody, alimony, and child support.
All of the same steps must be completed in an uncontested divorce as in a contested divorce. During a DIY divorce, the spouses must fill out and file all required documents, negotiate the terms of the divorce agreement, pay the necessary filing fees, etc. However, you will be doing them on your own instead of with the help of an attorney.
What Mistakes Are Commonly Made in DIY Divorces?
If you are filing a DIY divorce without the help of a legal professional, avoid making the following mistakes.
- Failing to accurately complete paperwork: There is an abundance of paperwork and documentation that must be completed and submitted in order to complete a DIY divorce. If you do not fill out forms completely, accurately, and on time, it can cause serious issues and delays.
- Overlooking financial information: Financial issues are some of the most important during a divorce. New Jersey is an equitable distribution state, meaning that all marital assets are to be divided fairly between the parties, not necessarily equally. You could mistakenly create a property division agreement that leaves one spouse significantly disadvantaged or that does not take into account all relevant financial information.
- Misunderstanding child custody and support laws: When children are involved in a divorce, the process can be more complicated. It is important to address custody and support during the divorce and create a plan that reflects the child’s best interests. Many DIY divorces fail to do this and create arrangements that are rejected by the court. This can lead to delays in the process.
- Making decisions rooted in emotion: Divorce is an inherently emotional process. Emotional decision-making can be detrimental and cause you to make choices that are not in your best interest, delay the process, and cost you more time and money than is necessary. It is important to have an objective viewpoint of the process.
- Failing to consider alimony: You may overlook the need for alimony or not understand the amount you truly deserve or are obligated to pay. You could wind up disadvantaging yourself if you do not understand how it works or the factors that are relevant when calculating the support obligation.
There are many mistakes that can be made during a DIY divorce, so it is crucial that you do not rush the process and ensure that you are in compliance with the law. For more information, reach out to a skilled attorney today.
