With online companies offering to fill out your divorce paperwork for a few hundred dollars, the idea of a “Do-It-Yourself” divorce can be compelling. That’s especially true when you realize that the average cost of a divorce in Florida is $10,409 (per person).
Before you decide to take that approach, however, you need to consider the risks. These include:
1. Legal complications and mistakes
Divorce laws vary significantly from state to state, and navigating these laws on your own can be tricky. DIY divorce kits and online templates may offer general guidance, but they rarely take into account unique circumstances. Errors can lead to delays in your case, legal disputes – or even cause the court to dismiss your case.
2. Asset division challenges
Dividing the marital assets and debts can be really complicated, and DIY solutions often oversimplify the process by failing to account for things like retirement accounts, real estate and business interests. Poorly structured settlements can also create unexpected tax burdens, and a DIY approach could also make it easier for one spouse to hide assets from the other.
3. Custody and support complications
Child custody and support arrangements are incredibly sensitive, and a DIY agreement can overlook important details like visitation schedules or medical expenses. You could also end up paying too much support – or receiving less than you’re entitled to receive.
4. Accidental waiver of rights
Without proper legal advice, you could forfeit your rights to assets, benefits and more – and there’s no way to undo that once the divorce is final.
Divorce is definitely expensive – but a DIY divorce can actually be far more costly in the long run.