I frequently receive questions from people regarding their family law issues. The following is a question which the inquirer agreed may be publicly revealed, and my answer to the question:
QUESTION: How do I begin the process of filing for divorce at a reasonable cost? I need to file a divorce but do not have a lot of money to put out on it at this time. How do I begin the process in the first place and what is the easiest way
ANSWER: Most courts have self-help clinics to assist self-represented parties prepare and file documents in divorce cases. Also, if you qualify financially, the Court might grant an application by you to waive filing fees. Those are your least expensive options. Depending on the issues in your divorce case, using the self-help clinic may or may not be your best option.
Generally, the best option is to retain, or at least consult with, a knowledgeable family law attorney, so that you can be informed regarding of your rights and responsibilities and what needs to be done in a divorce case.
Some Family Law Attorneys offer "unbundled services", i.e., consultation services where you represent yourself, but get information, guidance, advice, and preparation of documents (in your name) from the attorney. That option is less expensive than retaining the attorney to represent you, but then you will be the person who receives and has to respond to documents in the case, and if you receive documents, it would be a good idea to promptly schedule another consultation with the "unbundled services" consulting attorney.
Subscribe to:
Post Comments (Atom)
No comments:
Post a Comment