Everyone seems to assume that a Florida do-it-yourself divorce is really cheaper. But is it really? I think it depends on how committed the divorcing couple is to doing it right. Often when people represent themselves they assume that they can make any agreements they want. While it is generally true, there are areas like child support, where the judge will have the final say.
By taking shortcuts and not having paperwork reviewed by a qualified Florida lawyer, you may create problems in the future. If you are not committed to learning about Florida divorce law and procedure, a do it yourself divorce may cost more in the long run. That's because, like most areas, it costs more to undo the problem than to solve it right the first time around.
Those of you who know my story know that this blog and the DIY Divorce in Florida Crash Course were created when it cost my client over $18,000 to fix a DIY mistake. That's why I recommend you have your documents reviewed before you file them. In my experience, it is far less expensive in the long run to have your DIY divorce documents reviewed than to try to fix a mistake later.
She does not have to sign an agreement Steven. You can file for dissolution, serve her with the petition and have the judge make the final order. A settlement just makes it go a little faster.
Posted by: Pamela S. Wynn | January 03, 2011 at 08:54 PM
i am a florida resident trying to file a divorce by myself since my spouse is not signing it. she lives in CA, but she don't want to sign the paper even though we agree with divorce in uncontested. we have no marrital assets and child.
Posted by: steven | January 03, 2011 at 01:53 PM