These days, you can pretty much do anything with the help of the internet. For some people, that even includes getting a divorce online. People are attracted to this option thanks to its convenience and affordability, but they oftentimes don’t realize the numerous downsides to online divorce. We want to set the record straight on online divorces and help you learn about some of the reasons why it really isn’t a good option. This article is brought to you by The Johnson Law Firm and Associates.
1. Online Providers Are Not Attorneys
You might see an advertisement for online divorce and think that these providers can handle all of the legal complexities of your divorce. The truth is that they aren’t attorneys. Online divorce providers simply help you with paperwork and filing it. If you have questions about child custody, alimony, distribution of assets, and other important legal components of a divorce, it’s always best to speak with a professional divorce attorney. This is one of the main reasons why online divorce is not a good option.
2. Online Divorce Still Costs Money
Another reason why people are attracted to an online divorce is that they think it will cost them less money. It can cost less than paying an attorney, but online divorce can end up being more expensive than you initially planned. That’s because every divorce is different, and your unique situation may end up costing a lot of money even if it is an online divorce. You also can run into issues and oversights with an online divorce that might require you to spend more than you initially thought. It’s a much better idea to spend the money on a divorce attorney that can help you get everything done the right way.
3. Online Divorce Can Still Result in Court Time
If you think that online divorce is the perfect way to avoid spending time in court, you should probably rethink your approach. That’s because an online divorce can still result in you and your spouse having to head to court. If the judge thinks it is necessary to speak to you in court, you will have to go, regardless of how you filed for your divorce. This is yet another important reason to remember why online divorce is not a good option.
4. Divorce Laws Are Different in Each State
The idea of handling your divorce online is a promising prospect. However, you need to remember that divorce laws are different in each state. There is no “one size fits all” approach to filing for divorce. That’s why it’s a better idea to consult with a professional divorce attorney that understands the nuances of your situation and the state and local divorce laws.
Online divorce is typically a lot more trouble than its worth. You should consult with a divorce attorney before making any decision about online divorce.