Why You Should Avoid a DIY Divorce !

The internet is so packed with useful information that we have become a nation of do-it-yourselfers determined to save time and money. While you might be able to build a backyard pool with success after viewing a quick YouTube video, there are other projects can have serious consequences if you attempt them on your own.

Handling your own legal matters is one example, and this is particularly the case with a DIY divorce. Whether spouses see eye-to-eye, are in agreement about just one thing, or can’t even get through a conversation without emotion taking over, divorce can be challenging. A DIY divorce might seem like a fast and efficient way to end your marriage, but there are many downsides to choosing this option.

Just this week I had to fix two divorce orders that do not comply with pension legislation and so the pension funds refused to payout.  

The Dangers of DIY Divorce

There might be some websites that give instructions for a DIY divorce. These might be attractive options for couples anxious to end their marriage with as little cost and time investment as possible. But there are serious reasons why a DIY divorce can be a bad idea:

Lack of Expert Advice

When you handle your own divorce, you are likely to miss out on vital advice from a knowledgeable legal attorney who understands what is fair and what isn’t customary in a divorce case. There are some situations that only an experienced divorce attorney knows how to handle, such as property distribution especially when there is fixed property such as house, parenting plans: that will be endorsed by the family advocate, proper maintenance calculations, and pension legislation requirements.

For example: should you not make proper provision for how a house will be transferred to the other spouse, the conveyancing attorney will not be able to transfer the house upon conclusion of the divorce. 

Potential Mistakes

Filing your own divorce can be a complex process that opens you up to a variety of mistakes. If your date or fail to agree with your spouse about certain important items ( not included in your DIY settlement agreement), you may not end up with a binding agreement. A qualified divorce attorney in Port Elizabeth will ensure that your paperwork is correct and free of any mistakes that could impact your case
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Increased Stress

Divorce is already stressful enough. When you are trying to handle everything on your own, you are only adding additional headaches to your plate. Treading in unfamiliar territory can make an already difficult situation even worse. When you work with a trusted attorney, you can have peace of mind knowing that he or she knows the processes. 

Can Be More Costly

Going back to my example above, Ms x had to pay for her DIY divorce papers, then she had to pay again for an attorney to fix it.

While handling your own divorce might seem like a cost-effective approach, you could end up paying substantially more in the long run. If you make a mistake or fail to include something in your agreement, you could be facing a drawn-out court battle to have those matters corrected. And some terms can’t be changed, so you risk agreeing to a settlement that could be unfair.

Protect Your Interests in Divorce

If you are getting divorced in Port Elizabeth/Gqeberha, even an uncontested divorce, take immediate steps to protect your interests. Every divorce is unique and should be handled as such. Whether you have children, assets, a business, or are concerned about things like spousal maintenance, we can help.
At Tim van Rooyen & Associates, our expert divorce lawyers will explain your rights and the divorce process in language you can understand. Don’t take a chance on a DIY divorce. Contact our office today for a free consultation.