Everything You Need to Know About Filing for an Online Divorce

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Deciding to end your marriage is scary and stressful at the same time.

Thinking about the grueling process that you have to go through to finally cut ties with your spouse will be a tough journey but for some, choosing online divorce is their best option.

In fact, this alternative way of divorce is starting to become a more popular way for those couples who wish to end their marriage. Who wouldn’t want an option that is not just easier but can also be cheaper and faster?

This is the reason why online divorce is a fast-rising trend.

Related Reading: How Much Does a Divorce Cost? 

Is it possible to file for an online divorce?

Either you’re planning or have started getting ready to file your divorce papers; you might be thrilled to know that there is an easier option, which is online divorce.

If you are wondering how to get a divorce online, then you’ve come to the right place to gain information. There are actually many companies that are now offering online divorce services whereas divorce forms can easily be filled out. Basically, they offer the services that you’ll need to complete your divorce faster and at a cheaper rate.

These services often have forms ready, they have lawyers and paralegals that will review the papers you have submitted and other needed services.

Is online divorce for everyone?

There is one question to be answered here, is the online divorce option open for everyone? Can anyone who wants to get divorce file for divorce online with no problem?

The answer is no.

One has to remember that divorce will also depend on your state laws. We all know that there are some states which will allow you to file for divorce online and there are states that won’t.

Again, there are states that have strict and specific requirements for online divorce filing, so before trying to avail these services, it’s better to still check with your state’s court to see if you can choose online divorce.

Aside from state laws, there are also instances where there can be a complicated situation that needs a more detailed process. If your case involves, violence, psychological threats, and adultery, online divorce options aren’t advisable.

Now, if your case is considered as an uncontested divorce, then an online divorce method is your best option. As long as you and your spouse agree on the terms and are both willing to work together, you can expect to have a quick, cheap and easy divorce.

Also watch: 7 Most Common Reasons for Divorce

Pros and cons of DIY or online divorce process

Opting to an online divorce process nowadays may seem like the best option for any couple who would want to undergo divorce.

But before deciding, it’s better to understand the pros and cons of this option.

Pros

1. Online divorce is definitely easier and cheaper.
2. If you have an uncontested divorce, you don’t even need to hire an expert! Some online divorce options have free assistance.
3. Everything you’re filing online is saved and have back up. No more worrying about important papers getting lost in the post office.

Cons

1. If you’re not paying attention to details, most likely, your divorce papers may contain errors, which can be the reason why your divorce request is rejected. Online application, without a guide, can sometimes be harder for some people and this can cause mistakes right from spelling, words, details to even names.
2. Online divorce is definitely simpler but for some couples who have had traumatic experiences, online divorce doesn’t offer the help for emotional support, not unless you avail it separately through therapists.

Related Reading: 10 Crucial Things to Do Before Filing for Divorce 

How to get started with your online divorce?

For those of you who think that you qualify to try online divorce, then the question here is how to file for divorce online. Before anything else, you need to be sure about your decision and you need to make sure that there is no backing out as well and you’re sure that this is the right thing to do.

Here are some pointers to remember –

1. Decide if you will choose a third-party online divorce service or if you will utilize your state’s court site. Better to do a little bit of research as to which is your better option
2. Always check with your state court site and ask them for the step-by-step process if needed
3. You can also ask for assistance if you are unsure of the steps that you’ll be taking
4. Make sure that before you choose the online divorce option, you and your spouse are having an uncontested divorce. Don’t waste time and even money going through the online process only to end up having big issues. Ensure that decisions such as the custody of your children and their child support, visitation, and even the spousal support were already agreed upon along with the equal division of assets and debts between the two of you
5. Make sure that you are well aware of the important details needed in the online forms that you will be submitting. Online options are most often being done independently, so better double check your information such as correct spelling of names, addresses, social security numbers, and information about your properties, assets, and debts
6. Have everything in paper. Surely, an uncontested divorce is better and easier but just to be sure, you may want to lay every agreement in the paper
7. Make sure that all supplemental documents are included in your files. Any missing document, no matter how small, can make a huge difference in your online divorce process.

Choosing to end your years of marriage and deciding to get a divorce will change your life.

It will test you and your children’s endurance with change. Getting an easier and cheaper way to get divorce such as online divorce options can be heaven sent but alongside the benefits of choosing online divorce, is the responsibility of making sure that you’re checking the details and know how the process works.

Don’t hesitate to ask for help or do your research so you can fully enjoy the benefits of having your divorce process done online.

Related Reading: Understanding Marriage Annulment in the State of Arizona