Divorce can be messy and expensive. You may have heard all sorts of nasty rumors about the divorce process and how it can affect people. You might think you need to find another way to file divorce. Online divorces are a recent trend that’s come with the rise of social media and the internet.
But is this really a viable alternative to the traditional divorce process? Does it simplify the process at all?
What is divorcing online?
There are many different sites and online services for filing a divorce today. The first step in most of them is filling out a survey or questionnaire. There are certain requirements you have to meet in order to be eligible to file online. Each state has different policies, so not everyone can file online.
If you are eligible, there is usually a sign-up fee and a series of forms to fill out. These forms determine how your assets will be split, child custody arrangements and other typical divorce proceedings.
Does it work?
While this process seems to be relatively similar to a more traditional approach to divorce, it is not the same. These online forms do not offer much flexibility. If your circumstances do not meet the predesignated options, there are few alternatives.
For example, if you are divorcing without minor-age children, there may not be an option to not file a custody agreement. People with more complex assets are also not good candidates for online divorce. If you own a business, have complicated retirement funds or other unusual assets and circumstances, you may want to take a more traditional route.
Online filing also takes out the personal element of a divorce. While some services provide an online chat option, in most cases, there is no face-to-face consultation. Many people do not like this aspect as it is harder to work out specific issues with a qualified attorney who has experience.
What are the other options?
Fortunately, there are more options than just traditional and online divorce. Mediation and collaborative divorce are other ways people can sort out their divorce without the traditional fees and complications.
It is best to speak with a qualified attorney about an upcoming divorce. Even though an online divorce most likely is not the best solution, there are other ways you can file divorce without too much trouble.