In recent years, the number of people applying for divorce online has skyrocketed. This trend has been fascinating to watch because when you consider online divorce rates during the early 2000s, there were far too few to mention. At the start of this decade, analysts estimated that about a third of divorce filings had the words “Facebook” and “Online” attached to them.
Though many will point out that the internet has led to the dissolution of many marriages, it has also been a viable medium to file for divorce. In Arizona, many estranged couples looking to end their union are turning to divorce over the internet to dissolve their marriages.
Upon closer review, it is easy to see why DIY online divorce companies have become quite attractive. Online divorce is inexpensive, fast, and does not require an attorney. Also referred to as divorce without an attorney, individuals can independently file within the shortest possible time.
It is also important to note, however, that not all states and cities in the US have legalized online divorce. But it is legal in Arizona, and there are several sites offering divorce services over the internet to interested individuals and parties.
What is an online or DIY Divorce?
Online or Diy divorce is a type of divorce done over the internet. It doesn’t involve an online divorce court that dissolves irreparable marriages. What “online divorce” entails is getting all the necessary paperwork prepared online to allow people to initiate the process by filing the resulting paperwork with the court.
It saves couples wishing to apply for divorce, from making extra trips to the court, doing the painstaking paperwork preparation on their own, and hiring an expensive attorney to handle the process. Divorce websites have resources that can help you, making it much less costly and much more convenient.
These platforms use up-to-date court-approved divorce forms to ensure that the documents received by the applicant follow the laws of their state and the regulations of their local court. So there is no need to worry about if the documents are completed correctly. Some divorce websites even provide consulting services to applicants during the application process.
When is an online divorce a viable option?
Not everyone qualifies for an online divorce because certain factors must be in play before it becomes an option. The first and most important factor is that the marriage must be uncontested.
An uncontested divorce is one in which the other party is in agreement and not opposed to the divorce. If the divorce is contested, online divorce becomes impossible because divorce is only valid if it involves both parties.
Other factors one must take into consideration before applying for a divorce online include the following.
- All issues have to be resolved before filing for divorce to avoid your partner contesting the process.
- Is your marriage a short-termed union? Long-term marriages can be difficult to handle over the Internet.
- Are there shared debts or assets owned by both parties? If so, both spouses must agree on how to divide them. In cases with valuable assets or substantial debts, it may be necessary to hire professional assistance (such as lawyers and financial experts).
- Do you have children from the marriage? If so, you must have an agreement with your spouse regarding child custody and support. In some cases, it is better to seek legal representation to ensure that your and your child’s best interests are met.
As you can see, there are many essential factors to consider before moving ahead with your plans. Depending on your situation, it can be prudent to seek legal counseling before signing anything.
How to get an online divorce in Arizona
If you live in Arizona, and your goal is to get an online divorce without an attorney, here are the steps to take to get it done.
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Make sure the divorce is uncontested
It will require communication with your spouse to discuss all divorce-related issues. For negotiations to be fruitful, both parties must put aside their emotions and be willing to compromise. These agreements should be put in writing in the form of a settlement agreement.
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Search for a reliable online divorce company
Because online divorce has become such a popular option, there is an abundance of companies offering these services like Arizona Online Divorce.
To identify a good site suitable for Arizona’s legal circuit, localize your search for better results. Make sure you also read reviews posted by users who have recently used the web platform to validate their services and avoid scams.
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Sign up for the platform
The next step is to sign up for the service. Each divorce website has its own nuances, but in general, you will be required to:
- provide your name and contact address;
- specify if the marriage has produced any children;
- provide the personal information of your spouse;
- confirm your payment method;
- complete an online questionnaire or survey to provide the site with the information required to select and complete your forms.
If the documents are completed and filed accordingly, with no errors, the couples need only to appear before a judge at a final hearing to dissolve their marriage (and in some states not at all). If all goes well, a certificate of divorce will be issued to both parties.
Why is online divorce a good idea?
Getting a divorce is never an easy proposition due to the emotional pains involved in the whole affair. However, going through a protracted process makes it all the worse. Going through the process with little or no delays is the best way to move on and open a new chapter.
These are some of the advantages of filing for divorce online.
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It is Affordable
Application for divorce online is cheap and affordable compared to the traditional method of hiring an attorney to handle legal proceedings. The cost of using online platforms is affordable, making it an ideal option for low-income earners. Through this medium, you can avoid paying legal fees to lawyers.
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The process is fast
The last thing estranged couples want is to remain in a bad marriage. Most want to get through their divorce as quickly as possible to get on with their new lives. Divorce over the Internet is done on an expedited basis and allows couples to conclude the process in the shortest possible time.
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It offers greater control
As the petitioner, it offers you greater control over the entire process. Since you are not relying on an attorney’s expertise, you enjoy greater control over the process from start to finish. Another thing that makes DIY divorce a lot more attractive is that it remains a private affair for couples. The couples control what information is released to the courts and what stays private.
Conclusion
Divorce used to be chaotic and protracted due to the enormous amount of paperwork and frequent appearances in court by the couples involved. It is not the case for residents of Arizona anymore.
If you are going through an uncontested divorce, you can take advantage of an online divorce service. Just make sure that you use the services of a reliable divorce website.
If you are in doubt about any part of the documentation process, utilize the expertise of professionals on the platform to ensure the successful filing of your divorce.
Interesting Related Article: “He Said, She Said: How to Protect Your Assets During a Divorce“