There is a saying by Willie Nelson that goes: “ You know why divorces are so expensive? Because they’re worth it.”
But to be honest, this statement is not necessarily true. There are many ways to get a divorce, and some options are much more affordable than others.
Like what? You might ask.
Well, keep reading to find out how to get divorce documents in New Mexico for a fast and cheap divorce.
Option 1: Consider using an online divorce service.
One of the easiest ways to get divorce documents in New Mexico is to use an online divorce service. These expert companies help prepare your documents for you, and all you need to do is file the paperwork at your local clerk’s office.
There are many different companies to choose from, but be cautious, as some are not as great as others.
You would need to do some research before just choosing any online divorce service. The reason is that some companies might be scams, and others might not have up-to-date divorce documents, which means you will waste time and money by filing incorrect paperwork, forcing you to start the entire process all over again.
It would be wise to choose a web divorce service that has been in business for many years and offers 100% guaranteed documentation that holds up in court.
How does the process work?
The first thing you will need to do is answer some simple questions regarding your circumstances. For example, you will be asked if you know your spouse’s whereabouts, whether you agree on how to divide your assets and debts, and child-related matters (such as custody, maintenance, and visitation.)
What is the reason for this?
Well, you can only make use of online divorce services if you have an uncontested case. If your divorce is contested, you will need to use a lawyer to ensure that you get all that you want out of your divorce proceedings.
Once your documents are ready, you’ll receive them by email within two working days.
How much does a divorce over the internet cost?
The good news is that online divorce is affordable. You can receive your divorce papers for as little as $139. There are also various packages available. For example, some could cost up to $400, but this will include filing services.
If you choose to file your own documentation, remember that you will need to pay a filing fee, which varies from state to state. In New Mexico, you can expect to pay between $135 – $155 for divorce filing fees.
Option 2: New Mexico Courts Website
Another option is to go to the New Mexico courts website. The site is relatively easy to navigate, and you can download divorce documents directly.
The forms which you will be able to download are:
- Dissolution of marriage forms
- Kinship-guardianship forms
- Paternity forms
- Child support worksheet
These forms are for free, and once you have downloaded them, you will need to fill in all the necessary details and file them at your local clerk’s office. Once again, you will need to pay a filing fee.
Remember, though, that you can only make use of these documents if you have an uncontested divorce. If you are unsure how to fill out the paperwork, you could always have a lawyer check through everything before filing.
This will ensure that everything has been done correctly to avoid delays or starting the entire process from scratch again. Because the state’s website is relatively easy to understand, you could get away with doing a DIY divorce.
Also note, that if you have a contested divorce, do not attempt a DIY divorce. You will need a lawyer to help fight your case for you, especially if you can’t agree on things such as child custody.
Option 3: Use a lawyer
Many couples prefer not to use a lawyer for various reasons. One of the most significant reasons is that lawyers are pricey. On average, the cost of a divorce in New Mexico is about $10,700, with $8,400 going to lawyers.
This IS costly compared to the above options, but using a lawyer would be your safest option if you have a contested divorce.
If your divorce is uncontested, you could still use a lawyer to prepare your divorce documents, but why spend the extra money if you could do it way cheaper?
Lawyers charge per hour, so if you would like them to prepare your divorce documents, cut some time by collecting the paperwork yourself and avoiding meeting afterward to discuss the documentation.
The Takeaway
As you can see, getting divorce documents in New Mexico is not that complicated. You have three easy options, which include:
- Using an online divorce service
- Going straight to the state’s website
- Making use of a divorce lawyer
But remember to consider a few essential factors before deciding which option is best for you.
Think about cost, time, what is easiest for you, and whether your divorce is being contested.
If you are ever unsure about anything, always chat to a divorce lawyer to make sure that you are making the best decision for yourself, your children, and your future.
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