Do-it-yourself (DIY) divorce has become increasingly popular in recent years. While the idea of DIY divorce may be alluring, it can also be risky to take on a complicated legal process like a divorce without assistance from a professional. Today, we're exploring some of the risks of DIY divorce.
Why DIY Divorce May Not Be Right for You
There are a couple of reasons you may want to seek legal assistance from an attorney instead of filing a DIY divorce:
- Divorce is probably more complicated than you think. A DIY divorce is typically only offered for uncontested divorces where both parties agree on how to pursue the divorce. Even when divorce is amicable, however, it's still one of the most complex civil litigations. While DIY divorce providers like to make the divorce process sound simple, it's also important to remember that they're selling you a product. The divorce process involves multiple other legal issues, such as child custody, alimony, and property division. If you're not familiar with divorce law, it may take you dozens of hours to wade through the paperwork for a DIY divorce. And, as they say, time is money.
- Your soon-to-be-ex may try to strong-arm or deceive you. If your ex is more familiar with divorce law than you, they may try to convince you to finalize a divorce that goes against your best interests. If you engage in a DIY divorce, you won't have an attorney to fight for your rights.
- You may regret it in the future. You may not think you need child support now, but who knows what the future holds? An experienced divorce lawyer can help you pursue a divorce that protects your future interests. You may not be able to achieve that kind of insight in a DIY divorce.
At Singleton Smith Law Offices, we offer our clients a range of comprehensive, divorce-related legal services. To learn more, contact us online or via phone at (951) 779-1610.