Q: Is it possible to file for divorce without a lawyer?
My spouse and I don't have kids, debt, or property together and we are fairly in agreement about separating. We wish to do this ourselves since we don't have any disputes so we're expecting to not have trials or hearings anymore. Can we do this ourselves? What would be the most important consideration in our case that we may need to seek a lawyer for?
A:
In California, you can file for divorce without a lawyer, especially in cases like yours where there are no children, debts, or properties involved, and both parties are in agreement. This is often referred to as a "summary dissolution" or an "uncontested divorce."
To do this, you'll need to complete and file the necessary forms with the court, which are available on the California Courts website. The most important consideration in such cases is to ensure that all paperwork is filled out accurately and filed correctly, as errors can cause delays.
While legal representation may not be necessary, consulting a lawyer can be beneficial for a final review of your agreement and paperwork, ensuring that your rights are protected and that you haven't overlooked any potential legal issues.
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