DIY Divorce – What You Need to Know Before You Start

Getting a divorce can be more expensive than people realise. Because of this some couples choose to do a DIY divorce.

Divorce can be a daunting and emotionally charged process, but it doesn't always have to involve a lawyer. A DIY divorce can be a cost-effective and straightforward solution for couples who are able to agree on the terms of their separation. However, before embarking on this journey, there are a few things you should be aware of.

What is a DIY Divorce?

A do-it-yourself divorce is a process in which a divorce lawyer is not needed. The couple creates the divorce application themselves and submits it independently.

The couple is responsible for creating the legal divorce paperwork and marital agreement on their own, without the help of attorneys. This is often a way for separated couples to save money. However, it is important to remember that the entire divorce process is solely up to the couple.

The couple needs to cooperate and have a mutual understanding when it comes to the terms of the agreement. If they cannot come to an agreement, a DIY divorce may not be possible to achieve.

What to Know About a DIY Divorce

Even though a DIY divorce is a good option, there are certain things to consider. Like anything, you need to educate yourself on the pros and cons of doing this.

Divorce in Australia is a serious process that needs to be done correctly. Here is a DIY divorce guide on what a lawyer would want you to know.

It Takes Time

The number one thing a family lawyer would want you to know is that divorce proceedings take time. Although a DIY divorce may save you money, you will need to dedicate your time and effort to the process.

You may have to spend several hours reading the legal divorce process information, which can be confusing for those without a legal background. There is a lot of legal jargon to work through to understand the process.

You also need to ensure that your divorce documentation is correctly done. All of this requires time and effort that you may have to sacrifice.

That is why many people decide to engage a family solicitor to assist them with the divorce process. It may cost more, but for some people, the peace of mind is worth it.

However, if you choose to pursue a DIY divorce, online resources are available to assist you. These tools provide clear and understandable information about the process, helping you save time and effort.

There Are Ways to Make it Easier

The DIY divorce process can be overwhelming, especially if you're not familiar with legal procedures. Fortunately, there are resources available to make the process less stressful.

Koolik & Associates offers a free online tool that utilises artificial intelligence to provide personalised information for your unique situation. This can help you navigate the details and explore your options.

The best part is that the tool is completely free and requires no commitment. You don't have to engage with any lawyers or use any of the information provided if you don't want to. This can be a helpful starting point to gain a better understanding of the divorce process and your legal options.

The Risks of DIY Divorce:

Proceeding with a DIY divorce may lead to mistakes that can cause significant delays and added fees. Unlike getting married, divorce is a permanent and legally binding step, and it must be done correctly while keeping all legal requirements in mind.

It is essential to understand what is needed to avoid any mistakes with the documentation.

While doing research before beginning the process may help, it is always best to seek advice from a qualified legal professional.

Settlement May Not be Equitable:

One of the significant drawbacks of a DIY divorce is that the settlement may not be fair or equitable for one or both parties.

In a situation where you hire a divorce lawyer, each party has a lawyer who understands the legal system and can fight for their client's rights.

Without that support, one of you may miss out on benefits to which you would otherwise be entitled. This can occur if one party is more knowledgeable than the other regarding the legal process or lacks a clear understanding of what is allowed by law. It is crucial to seek legal advice to ensure that the settlement is fair and equitable for both parties.

It May Not be as Cheap as You Think

Opting for a DIY divorce may appear to be an attractive option to save money, but it's crucial to evaluate the potential risks and drawbacks before proceeding. In some cases, a DIY divorce may not result in significant cost savings and may even lead to a worse financial outcome than if you engaged a family lawyer.

A potential concern is unexpected fees that may arise throughout the divorce process. Without the guidance of a lawyer, you may not be aware of all the potential costs involved, which could leave you unprepared and in a difficult financial situation.

It's worth noting that there are low-cost services available to assist you. These services may be able to provide affordable access to legal advice. 

An alternative option is to consider family law firms that offer fixed fee services. These firms can provide you with a clear estimate of the total cost of your divorce, which can help you plan your finances accordingly.

Ultimately, the decision to pursue a DIY divorce or engage a family lawyer should be based on your unique circumstances and needs. It's important to carefully consider all your options and seek advice from a qualified legal professional to ensure the best possible outcome for you and your 

DIY Divorce QLD

If you've decided to pursue a DIY divorce then use the Divorce Service Kit (do it yourself kit) provided by the Federal Circuit and Family Court of Australia. However, it's crucial to ensure that both parties are in agreement and have a clear understanding of their desired outcome.

It's important to note that a DIY divorce may not be the best option for everyone, and seeking advice from an experienced family lawyer is strongly recommended. A lawyer can provide valuable insight into the legal and financial implications of divorce, and help you navigate any potential issues that may arise.

At Koolik & Associates, we offer a no-obligation consultation to help you understand your options and make informed decisions. Contact us today to speak with an experienced family lawyer who can guide you through the divorce process and ensure that your rights are protected.

Please note the contents of this post is information only and not legal advice. If you require legal advice it is best to contact one of our lawyers who can review your particular circumstances and then provide tailored advice according to your needs.