It is a well-known fact that filing for a divorce is never an easy affair.
There are ways to make the divorce process easier, yes, but never truly easy.
One way of easing the process is getting an online divorce.
What is Online Divorce?
Basically, online divorce (or web divorce as it is often called) is any divorce process capable of being carried out over the internet.
Like all things carried out online, online divorce is quicker and more affordable than traditional divorce proceedings.
Also referred to as a do it yourself or DIY divorce, online divorce provides couples with the option to do just that ā to file for divorce without an attorney.
Is Online Divorce Legal?
Yes, carrying out your divorce proceeding online and without a lawyer is completely legal.
While this is a perfectly legal means of filing for divorce, there are times when it is advisable to use this option for the dissolution of marriage and times when it is not.
Online divorce paperwork preparation services should only be used for an undisputed or uncontested divorce.
If for any reason, you and your spouse canāt agree on the grounds for divorce or the terms of your separation, we advise that you look into other forms of divorce instead.
Who Should Use Online Divorces?
When considering filing for divorce online, the fact that your divorce is an uncontested divorce is not the only thing you need to consider.
While anyone can file for an uncontested divorce over the internet, this kind of divorce is better suited for the following kinds of couples:
Couples whose marriage was short term
Couples with no children
Couples with no shared assets or debts
If you and your spouse do not fit these categories, seeking legal advice or other kinds of divorce may be a better option.
Online Divorce Requirements in Georgia
Filing for divorce online in Georgia holds the same requirements as filing for a traditional divorce.
These requirements include:
You must be a resident of Georgia for at least six months before filing for a divorce in the state.
You must state grounds for divorce. When going for an online divorce, you will have to use a no-fault ground, which in Georgia is an āirretrievable breakdown of the marriageā.
How to File for Divorce Over the Internet
As stated earlier, filing for divorce online is faster compared to traditional divorce, and the process can be carried out in just a few simple steps.
Choose an online divorce service
The first step to filing for divorce over the internet is finding the right website that offers the online divorce option.
And notice we said the right site.
With so many scam sites out there, you really do not want to get it wrong.
Weād advise using a reputable firm like Divorce Online Georgia to get online divorce services you can trust.
Check for eligibility
Different websites each have their own version of an eligibility test which must be carried out before you can file for divorce online.
Most tests usually contain 3-5 questions, most of which revolve around your residency and that of your spouse.
After answering the questions, youāll instantly be told whether or not you qualify.
Complete a DIY divorce questionnaire
If you are eligible to file for an online divorce, you will be directed to complete a questionnaire concerning the intended divorce.
This is where the information about your marriage will be collected.
It is also where the grounds of divorce would be made and things like property division, alimony, child custody, and spousal support would come into play.
As stated earlier, if both couples are not in agreement concerning this, we would really advise opting for other forms of divorce.
Most of the time, this questionnaire can be filled at your leisure.
We advise that you take advantage of this flexibility to take some more time to think about the details of your divorce before completing this questionnaire.
Review and Print complete divorce forms and filing instructions
Once all the above-mentioned steps have been completed, all that is left to do is to print out the divorce papers and filing instructions.
To make the divorce official, the papers will need to be signed by both you and your spouse.
Cost of Online Divorce
The cost of your online divorce will depend on which online divorce service you choose.
Different sites charge different amounts, but it usually falls in the range of $139 – $400.
Regardless of what site you choose, the state of Georgia also has a mandatory filing fee which is charged by the court at the time of filing which is in addition to the cost of the online divorce service.
The filing fee is usually between $200 – $220, depending on your county. So the overall cost of online divorce is around $350 – $600 which is thousands of dollars less than what it would cost to use an attorney.
What is the Waiting Period for Web Divorce in Georgia?
In Georgia, the waiting period for web divorces is the same for traditional divorce ā about thirty days if your partner resides in Georgia; sixty days if your partner lives outside Georgia but still within the United States; and ninety days if your partner does not live in the United States.
Advantages and Disadvantages of Online Divorce
While filing for divorce online comes with a lot of advantages, it is not without its pitfalls.
Below is a list of the main pros and cons of online divorce:
Advantages of Online Divorce
It is the cheapest kind of divorce available.
It provides an accelerated divorce process.
It provides greater control over the terms of the divorce.
Disadvantages of Online Divorce
It is of no use in a contested divorce.
You have to watch out for fake websites and scams.
It might not work in all cases.
Final Verdict
No matter what kind of divorce you choose, you must still face the pain of a broken home.
If you have considered all your options and have come to conclude that this is indeed what you need, then we wish you the best.
Online divorce is an easier and more affordable divorce option if you can come to an agreement with your spouse to have an uncontested divorce.
An amicable end to your marriage is always the best choice if you are sure about getting a divorce.
However, If you have doubts, we implore you to reconsider.
This is not a decision you want to come back to regret in the future.