Do You Need an Attorney to Get a Divorce?
The divorce rate is currently around 50% and that number may be much higher if everyone who wanted a divorce got one. Many people never follow through with divorces because they claim they cannot afford a lawyer.
It is generally a good idea to have an attorney on your side, but you are not required to have one. You can get all the forms yourself, and there are many websites that provide guidance on how to get a DIY divorce.
A DIY divorce may be OK for a short-term marriage with few assets and no children. But for a more complicated divorce, you probably will not want to try to handle it on your own. If your divorce is contested, it may be in your best interest to hire a lawyer.
Divorces are not always easy. There are many complex elements involved. Here are some pros and cons of DIY divorce that you should know about.
Pros of DIY Divorce
- It is cheaper. Not hiring a lawyer can save you thousands of dollars. By divorcing on your own, you can avoid hefty legal fees and court costs.
- It is quicker. When you and your spouse are handling the divorce on your own, there is no middleman. Less back and forth can make the process quicker. The case will not drag on for years.
- It is more private. You and your spouse can handle all the details of your divorce on your own rather than getting lawyers involved.
- There is more control. Handling the divorce without lawyers allows the couple to have more control over the process and the outcome rather than leaving decisions to attorneys and judges. This can be beneficial if there are children involved. You and your spouse can make decisions about what is best for them.
Cons of DIY Divorce
- Divorce can involve complex legal issues, especially regarding property division, child custody, and support agreements. Without legal expertise, the parties may struggle to navigate these complexities effectively.
- Lack of legal knowledge. The legal system can be intricate and confusing. Without a lawyer's guidance, individuals may overlook important legal requirements, potentially leading to unfavorable outcomes.
- Without a lawyer's guidance, there's a higher risk of making mistakes that could have long-term consequences, such as signing unfavorable agreements or overlooking important legal protections.
- Emotional stress. Divorce is emotionally taxing. Handling the legal aspects without professional support can be even more stressful for both parties.
Contact Our Texas Divorce Lawyer Today
Divorcing without a lawyer is possible, but is it the right choice for you? Many divorces are contested, and in these cases, having a lawyer is always a good idea.
Should you get a lawyer for your divorce or go it alone? Get advice from Texas divorce attorney John Powell III, P.C. We can assist with contested and uncontested divorces. Fill out the online form or call (281) 747-6346 to schedule a consultation with our office.