An online divorce service is a digital platform that allows you to fill out the papers required to end a marriage, without actually having to sit down in a lawyer’s office. You complete a series of questions online. The service turns your answers into the legal papers you need and advises you on what to do next. For couples who agree on the divorce, this might make the process much easier. Since divorce laws vary by state, province, and nation, online divorce services vary by firm.
This guide explains what an online divorce service is, how it works, what it costs, whether it is worth it, and how to choose the best provider.
What Is an Online Divorce Service?
Online divorce services prepare divorce documents for you based on information you enter through a web-based questionnaire. Basically it is like any divorce, but the paperwork is prepared digitally rather than by you.
Document preparation is all that an online divorce service does. It is not a law firm, and it does not replace the need for a court to grant the divorce.
How Does an Online Divorce Service Work?
The procedure is typically straightforward:
- You sign up for an account and choose the package that works best for you.
- You fill out an online questionnaire with your personal details, your spouse’s details, information about your marriage, and any children, property, or debts.
- The service automatically creates your documents from your answers, formatting them to meet your jurisdiction’s requirements.
- Follow the instructions to review, sign, and file the documents.
Your documents will be better if you spend some time on the inquiry.
Who Can Use an Online Divorce Service?
Online divorce services are well suited to uncontested divorces, particularly when both spouses agree on key issues such as:
- How property and assets will be divided
- Who is responsible for which debts
- Parenting arrangements and child support, if you have children
- How much spousal support will be paid
A more complicated situation may call for extra legal help. That could mean disagreements about money or children, domestic violence concerns, a spouse who can not be found or will not cooperate, or complex assets like businesses, trusts or property overseas.
What Is Included in an Online Divorce Service?
Interested in what an online divorce service includes? What you get depends on the firm and package, but most offer a basic set of core features.
Divorce Document Preparation
Online divorce services prepare your court papers. They create the main application, or petition, that formally asks the court to end your marriage. They also provide the supporting forms required in your area. You answer questions, and the agency uses your responses to prepare documents in the right format. It can flag missing details and choose forms that fit your situation. That means less guesswork with court paperwork, which can be difficult to sort out.
Online Divorce Forms and Paperwork
Depending on your situation and location, you may find that the following forms are included:
- The main divorce application or petition
- Financial disclosure or information statements, where required
- Notices and proof of service documents
- Supporting declarations or affidavits
- Cover sheets and other court-required forms
The right company can help you organize your documents, too. You can usually download the completed forms as files ready for signature. Also, you can download a checklist that shows what to sign, copy, and submit.
Marital Settlement Agreement Preparation
A marital settlement agreement (sometimes called a separation agreement, property settlement or consent agreement, depending on where you live) lays out how you and your spouse will settle your divorce.
It can cover:
- Division of property, savings and retirement accounts
- Responsibility for debts such as mortgages, loans and credit cards
- Spousal support or maintenance
- Ownership of the family home, vehicles and other assets
It may be included in some packages, but it may also be priced separately.
Divorce Filing Instructions and Assistance
Most online divorce services provide step-by-step instructions for filing documents, required copies, serving your spouse, and applicable deadlines.
One confusing area is how the service handles your document filing. Some services only prepare the paperwork and ask you to file it yourself, while others offer filing as an optional service. Always check this before accepting so you know who will submit your documents to the court.
Customer Support and Guidance
A good service comes with good customer support. Depending on the provider, support may include:
- Help understanding questionnaire questions
- Technical assistance with your account and downloads
- Guidance on completing and organizing paperwork
- Support via email, live chat or phone
Keep in mind that customer support staff can explain how the service works, but not provide legal advice.
How Does the Online Divorce Process Work?
Planning for your online divorce is easier when you understand how it works. The steps vary according to location.
Step 1: Choose an Online Divorce Service
Start by comparing providers. Check what each package includes, its price, what support is available, and whether the service is made for your jurisdiction. Make sure the provider clearly explains what it does and what it does not do.
Step 2: Complete the Online Questionnaire
Personal, financial, and spouse-related information will be needed. It helps to gather these details beforehand:
- Full names, dates of birth and contact details for you and your spouse
- Date and place of marriage, and date of separation
- Details of any children
- Information about income, assets, property and debts
- Any existing agreements about property or parenting
Step 3: Prepare and Review Divorce Documents
After you submit your answers, the service will prepare your papers. Look over it all carefully. Check that the names, dates, addresses and financial information is correct and that the documentation accurately represents what you and your spouse have truly agreed to. Errors might lead to delays or rejection by the court.
Step 4: Submit the Divorce Paperwork
Next, you must file your paperwork with the court. Most people file their documents themselves, online or in person, and pay the filing fee. There are some providers that will handle submissions for an extra fee.
Step 5: Complete the Remaining Legal Requirements
Filing is rarely the final step. Depending on where you live, you may need to wait for a required separation period. You may also need to attend a hearing, or give the court more documents before granting your divorce. Rules vary by location, so check your local requirements.
How Much Does an Online Divorce Service Cost?
Online divorce services vary greatly, from low-priced packages that provide basic form preparation to premium bundles that include additional assistance and add ons. Online divorce services cost less than hiring a lawyer for the same matter. However, the actual cost varies depending on circumstances.
What Affects the Cost of Online Divorce Services?
- Service package and features: More comprehensive packages cost more
- Document preparation requirements: Cases involving children, property or additional agreements may need more documents
- Optional attorney consultations: Legal review or advice is usually an extra charge
- Court filing fees and other expenses: These are paid separately and differ by jurisdiction
Are Online Divorce Services More Affordable Than Hiring a Lawyer?
A simple divorce usually costs less through an online service than with traditional legal representation: you pay to prepare documents, not an attorney’s hourly rate. How much you save depends on your case. Disputes, major assets, or children can wipe out savings. Online divorce services may suit simple cases, but they cannot replace legal advice in all cases.
Is an Online Divorce Service Worth It?
You might be able to save money by using an online divorce service. It is a sensible and effective answer for many couples who agree on the most important things. For some people, the drawbacks are more significant than the benefits.
Benefits of Using an Online Divorce Service
- Complete your paperwork anytime, from anywhere
- The questionnaire walks you through what is needed
- Eligible cases can cost far less than full legal representation
- Save your progress and return when you are ready
Potential Limitations to Consider
- The service prepares documents but does not advise you
- Complex or contested cases usually need a lawyer
- Court filing, service and hearings can remain your responsibility
FAQs
Do Online Divorce Services Include Court Filing Fees?
In most cases, no. Court filing fees belong to the courts and are usually separate from the cost of services. Some jurisdictions may waive or lower fees if you meet certain requirements.
Can You Get a Divorce Completely Online?
In some jurisdictions, you can handle the whole process online, from preparation through filing. In others, you may still need to appear in court or file paperwork in person. Check your local courts’ requirements.
Can I get divorced online if my spouse lives in another state or country?
In Australia, you may get divorce online even if your spouse resides in another Australian state or abroad. You need to fulfill Australia’s divorce eligibility criteria, including being separated for at least 12 months.
How Long Does an Online Divorce Take?
Online documents are usually prepared quickly, sometimes within a few hours. The full timeline depends on court processing, required waiting or separation periods, and how your spouse cooperates.
Can Both Spouses Use an Online Divorce Service?
Couples who divorce peacefully use the same service. Spouses often help one another sign and complete the forms. Both spouses can get independent legal advice.
Final Thoughts
An online divorce service can make a stressful process simpler. Most include guided help preparing documents, submitting the forms you need, support with settlement and parenting paperwork, filing instructions, and customer service. But they generally do not provide personalized legal advice or court representation, help with contested disputes, or cover court filing fees.
Read the details of each package’s included and exclusions before registering. Having thorough knowledge will enable you to choose a service that best suits your needs and prevent unforeseen expenses. Additionally, since eligibility, waiting periods, and filing processes vary by jurisdiction, make sure you know your local divorce laws.