Monday, June 30, 2008

Divorcing in Orange County? Do It Yourself.

By Jon D. Alexander, Esq.

If you and your soon to be ex-spouse can reach agreement on several key issues you may be able to spare yourself the added expense of hiring an attorney. The Orange County, California Superior Court provides all of the requisite forms and even an instruction manual that walks you through the divorce process.

You and your spouse are properly suited for do it yourself ("DIY") divorce if the both of you:

1. Have been married for less than 5 years;

2. Agree on how to divide possessions and debts;

3. Do not have kids together;

4. Possess less than $32,000.00 in property together;

5. Owe less than $4,000 (four thousand dollars) together.

If you can answer all of these questions in the affirmative a DIY divorce may be your best option. You can find the packet of forms for your DIY divorce provided by the Orange County, California Superior Court at http://www.occourts.org/scripts/formsearch.pl?PacketNum=L012.

Be sure to pay attention to the Superior Court's disclaimer: Packets have been developed which meet filing needs in most circumstances. There may be some circumstances when additional forms (not included in the packet) will be required by the court.

If, on the other hand, you did not answer yes to every numbered item above it's probably time to retain a qualified Orange County, California divorce lawyer. You will no doubt have questions and might require representation. For a free consultation please visit us at www.oc-familylawyers.com and schedule an appointment today.

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