So I was in PA (Philly) for my divorce. Reading up on it it seemed pretty simple. However, I had a lot going on at the time, just moved back from South Africa and didn't want to deal with it, so I got a lawyer. I think I paid her $800 and it was well worth the money as I just met with her once, signed some papers and she took care of everything.
I can't remember exactly how much the filing was, but it wasn't expensive. I think under $100. So no not expensive.
Post by whiskeyandwine on Jan 10, 2016 22:46:30 GMT -5
I feel like I missed a post, or an update, but I'm sorry you're going through this. I hope you're able to find peace and happiness at the end - you deserve it, and more. Hugs hugs hugs, friend.
Post by averyjessup on Jan 11, 2016 4:25:23 GMT -5
I might be thinking of someone else, but you possibly mentioned not too long ago that you guys had a lot of debts together? It might be worth at least consulting a lawyer, or having one draw up some basic paperwork, just to make sure you're 100% covered there. Hugs to you.
You can definitely file everything yourself. Divorce is very process oriented, so just make sure you take care of all the steps.
Options to think about: can you get a free consult with an attorney to talk about everything? What about seeing if there is a paralegal who can help with the paperwork (cost would be much less than an attorney). Local law schools and bar associations sometimes offer free/reduced price clinics to help/take care of these things.
If you do have a lot of debt it would be worth it to have someone help with the initial paperwork because if you divide the debt/and assets wrong that will be an issue for the judge.
I did it all myself. I had one free phone consult with a lawyer when I couldn't figure out how to serve him (he went missing for months during the process). It was overwhelming trying to understand everything, but much much cheaper than getting a lawyer. We had no property/money/debts to split though.
If you have debts to consider and cannot come to agreement on how to split them, you will need a lawyer. Some firms will have a paralegal for you to work with that is cheaper and can help you with these issues. If you don't know a local lawyer check with your local state bar, they provide referrals.
The county I work for has a Family Justice Center, and depending on issues in your marriage an advocate would be able to help you complete necessary forms. At the very least, free civil/legal help is also available for other circumstances. The courthouse has their own programs as well. Looking up your local county's DA's office, as well as the courthouse, websites to see what recourses they have may be a good idea. Good luck!
Also in PA. My husband and his ex wife did it themselves, and I think it cost about $350. Nothing was contested, they handled splitting up everything themselves. I can get more info from him if you need it.
Even if you can work out the debt arrangement, be aware that in many states it doesn't matter. If he doesn't pay his bills, they can come after you as even after divorce it's a joint debt incurred during the marriage. You'd have to pay the bill and then go after him for repayment. Just a heads-up.
Our courts have a family law facilitator that you can make an appointment with to go over paperwork. You can buy the kits at the Clerk of Court's office (with kids, without kids, etc.)
I second the suggestion to get a lawyer. Many will work with you if you can't pay up front, and a lawyer's fee is a drop in the bucket compared to potentially getting stuck with larger financial obligations. It's at least worth a consultation. Good luck and I hope it all goes smoothly. ((((hugs))))
Even if you can work out the debt arrangement, be aware that in many states it doesn't matter. If he doesn't pay his bills, they can come after you as even after divorce it's a joint debt incurred during the marriage. You'd have to pay the bill and then go after him for repayment. Just a heads-up.
Our courts have a family law facilitator that you can make an appointment with to go over paperwork. You can buy the kits at the Clerk of Court's office (with kids, without kids, etc.)
This is totally true, at least for me. XH ran up a ton of debt when we separated and, even though he admitted it was his debt, the credit cards didn't care. They ended up suing us and I had to pay half.