A quick search online will deliver many websites offering “low cost” do-it-yourself (DIY) divorces. Typically, a DIY divorce requires you to fill out all the paperwork, file for divorce, arrange service to your spouse and more—all on your own. Unsurprisingly, this can come with many pitfalls.
5 Potential Dangers of Do-It-Yourself Divorce
While you may be tempted to take this route, DIY divorces are dangerous and lack the protection you need post-divorce. Here is just a sampling of the many consequences you may face when trying to go it alone.
1. Subpar Property Division
Texas is a community property state, which means marital property belongs to you and your spouse. Marital property must be equitably distributed in a divorce.
Even if you and your spouse are on amicable terms, property division can be complicated. Without an attorney, you may walk away with less than you deserve, resulting in future financial consequences.
2. Future Child Custody Consequences
If you have minor children, you’ll need a parenting plan, regardless of how well you and your spouse get along. Without a parenting plan, you have no custody standards to fall back on or to turn to in the event one of you wants to make a change.
3. Emotional Overwhelm
Divorce is a hard and emotional process without needing to file the paperwork and complete the process alone. Trying to do it all yourself can lead to emotional overwhelm which can negatively impact your wellbeing. If there’s one time in your life where you need additional support, this is it.
4. Incorrect Paperwork
Divorce requires a lot of paperwork. A mistake like failing to file a required document or checking a wrong box can come back to haunt you in the form of financial liability and more. Unfortunately, some errors are final and can’t be undone.
5. Fraud
Is there a chance your spouse may not have been 100% truthful about family finances? This deception can follow you through your DIY divorce, leaving you with fewer resources than you may need to move forward in life. An attorney can get to the bottom of any situation, helping you get your equitable share.
Thinking About a DIY Divorce? Call a Divorce Attorney First.
Don’t go through divorce alone. Get the guidance you need from an experienced divorce attorney. Reach out to our legal team by calling 817-789-4436 or send us a message. We’re here to support you.
