While Virginia does offer a cost-effective Do-it-Yourself Divorce program, it is not for everyone, and anyone who gets divorced this way risks getting the short end of the stick. We take a look at who could qualify for the Do-it-Yourself Divorce program and explain how a divorce attorney could probably get you a better outcome.
How a Do-it-Yourself Divorce Works in Virginia
This program from the Virginia Poverty Law Center is available in certain situations and requires you to enter all of your information into an online portal. Before beginning the process, you will have to gather a lot of information, including marriage details, employer information, child support and custody agreements, property and debt information, and more. The program is not an option for:
- Military members and veterans
- Couples with retirement accounts or pensions
- Women who are pregnant
If you or your spouse have property, assets, or debts to divide, you must have a signed Property Settlement Agreement (PSA) or settlement agreement before beginning this process. Also, child custody, child support, and spousal support must have already been decided by a court. It is highly recommended that you work with an attorney to divide assets and debts and to represent you in child custody and child support hearings. Given all this information, the Do-it-Yourself Divorce program is best for childless couples who do not own property and earn similar incomes. In our experience, that applies to very few divorcing couples.
How a Fairfax Divorce Attorney Can Make Your Life Easier
Divorce is a complicated, emotionally charged process. It is very difficult to get what you deserve out of a divorce without an experienced advocate on your side. The divorce attorneys at MacDowell Law Group will take the time to understand your needs, explain your options, and fight for what you deserve. Whether you are seeking full custody of your children, spousal support, an equitable division of assets, or you simply want someone else to handle the process, contact our office in Fairfax.
Do You Need To Speak To A Virginia Divorce Attorney?
If you are considering divorce you need to speak with an experienced Virginia divorce attorney as soon as possible. Please contact us online or call our Fairfax, Virginia law office at 703.277.2811 to schedule your free consultation. We help clients throughout Washington D.C., Maryland and Virginia and look forward to helping you.
Related Links:
- 3 Ways to Protect Your Virginia Estate When You’re Getting Divorced
- The Importance of Working With an Attorney Even If Your Divorce Is Uncontested
- 4 Ways to Prepare for a Child Custody Hearing