If waiting in line at your local courthouse seems far too exhausting to contemplate, you might be able to file for divorce online. This service is provided by several web sites, including Legal Zoom and Divorce Writer. In order to file for divorce online, you have to pursue an uncontested divorce, which means that you can’t have any complications in your way.
Most people file for divorce online because they don’t want to deal with courts or lawyers or mediators. They would rather initiate the process as quietly as possible and take care of it without any delays. If this sounds like something you want to pursue, follow these steps:
1- Research the Systems
There are plenty of places to file for divorce online, but each is not created equal. Some have higher fees than others, and some are allowed only for certain states. Research five or six of the top-rated sites and decide which is best for you, concentrating mainly on the amount of time it takes and the fees involved. If you and your spouse can’t agree on the right venue, you might be destined for court after all.
2- Learn if You Qualify
Some people qualify to file for divorce online, while others don’t. If you can’t meet the criteria, you’ll have to pursue other methods. For example, you can’t have children under the age of eighteen, and you can’t file for divorce without your spouse. Furthermore, both you and your spouse have to be able to agree on things like division of property, assets, debts and other legal matters without benefit of an attorney.
3- Complete the Required Interview
When you file for divorce online, the web site will require that both you and your spouse complete an online interview, or questionnaire. This interview can be completed at your own pace, from the comfort of your home or office, and you don’t have to make phone calls or appear in person. You’ll be asked questions that pertain to your marriage, your upcoming divorce, and your property. Just answer each question as openly and honestly as possible.
4- Fill Out Paperwork
If you are given the go-ahead to file for divorce online after the interview, the web site will send you paperwork that needs to be filled out and signed. In most cases, you can simply complete the paperwork, and mail it back; you might not have to appear in court or do anything else to make your divorce final. Expect this process to take at least eight weeks, depending on the company you use.
5- Pay Your Fees
In most cases, you’ll pay for services before the process starts, but you may only have to put down a deposit, and you’ll be responsible for the rest at completion. Fees can range anywhere from $100 to $1,000, so again, make sure you research your options carefully. You should also check to see if you’ll be charged for other expenses, such as time talking to an agent on the phone or shipping and handling of your paperwork.
