Times have changed and thank goodness for that. There are so many options now when it comes to getting a divorce. You longer have to go the traditional route.
The internet has really modernized the entire divorce process, which makes life so much easier for those seeking to end their marriages. Not only is getting an online divorce fast and simple, but it is affordable too.
Instead of spending tons of money hiring a lawyer, going to court, and fighting battles, you can just file for a divorce online.
The process is simple, cheap and fast. In America, more than half of all marriages end in divorce. Traditionally, a divorce with an attorney that goes to trial can cost up to $15,000 per person. Compare that to just $299 that it would cost to do an online divorce. Which option would you choose?
Perhaps you don’t understand the online divorce process. Keep on reading to learn all you need to know about the online divorce process.
Step 1: Choose an online divorce company
When it comes to choosing the right online divorce company, don’t just go with the cheapest. Choose a company that has been around for a few years. This will ensure that they have the experience needed to help you with your divorce. A company that has great reviews is also a good option. The right company should offer you a breakdown of their fees, great customer service, and, most importantly, valid, court-approved documents.
If the company you decide to go with also offers guarantees, this would be an added bonus. You don’t have to use an online divorce company. You could always stop at your local clerk’s house and obtain divorce documents.
Step 2: See if you qualify for an online divorce
The process of filing for a divorce online is really easy. If you and your spouse agree to all the terms of your divorce such as splitting assets and debts and child visitation, then you can file for an online divorce.
Initially, when you choose to get an online divorce, you might need to fill out a questionnaire. This questionnaire will be used to determine if you qualify for an online divorce.
If you do qualify, then the company will send you the correct documentation.
Step 3: Receive documents and fill them out
An online annulment company will prepare your divorce papers for you. This process can happen in as little as 24 hours. This is much faster than the traditional route of relying on an attorney for the completion of divorce papers, especially if your attorney has lots of clients.
The divorce documents are prepared based on the information that you provide. Once you receive your documents, you will then need to fill out the papers on your own. Some companies do have attorneys that you can contact if you are unsure about how to fill out the forms. First, check to see if this service is included in the price or if you have to pay extra for it. When it comes to filling out your forms, include all the correct information; such as full names, addresses, social security numbers, the date of your marriage, the names and birthdays of your children, as well as your assets and debts.
It is also important to state the reasons for your divorce. Make sure that all your information is correct. If anything is incorrect, you might have to start the entire process all over again. This can be very frustrating.
Step 4: Serve your spouse with the divorce papers
If it is required in your state, you will have to serve your spouse with the divorce papers. This will have to be done by someone older than 18 years old or by a professional server. You won’t be able to serve the divorce papers yourself.
Step 6: Prepare an annulment agreement
You and your spouse will need to prepare an agreement that satisfies you both. Keep in mind that whatever you decide now can affect you for the rest of your life. You will need to make sure that what you agree upon is exactly what you want. In some cases, this can be really easy. For example, if you don’t have any children or any real assets. It would be a good idea to use an attorney for this step to make sure that you and your spouse are happy, especially if you have children, assets or even a small business. When a lawyer signs off on your agreement, it will help to prevent problems later on.
Step 7: Add all your supporting documentation
Add all your supplementary documentation to your paperwork. Examples of supplementary documentation can include your salary slip, bank statements, insurance policies and so forth.
Step 8: File your divorce documents and pay any fees
Some online divorce companies file your documentation for you. Others do not. If you are with a company that doesn’t file your paperwork, you will then need to take all your documentation to your local clerk’s office. At the clerk’s office, you will pay any fees that are applicable according to your state. These fees are in addition to any fees already paid for document preparation. Once this is done you will have to wait for court approval. If you have an uncontested divorce you will not have to appear in court.
The end
The best thing about getting an online divorce is that the company you choose will guide you through the entire process. From start to finish, they will help you and give you detailed instructions on how to file your paperwork. You don’t have to feel left in the dark. Most online services have fantastic customer service that will help you every step of the way.
