A Cautionary Tale: The Perils of Online Divorce Document Services

Divorce can be a complicated and emotional process, and navigating the legalities can feel overwhelming. Many individuals facing this situation turn to online divorce document assembly services, thinking they can save time and money. However, the reality can be quite different. In this post, I want to share a cautionary tale about a client who learned the hard way that these services often do more harm than good.

The Experience of a Client

Recently, I had a gentleman walk into my office who had tried one of these online divorce document services. Without naming names, you likely know the types of companies I’m referring to. They offer to sell you divorce forms, either as blank documents or through a series of online questionnaires that auto-populate your forms. This client paid around $200, filled out the forms, and received a package of documents, but he had no idea where to start.

When he came to me, he was confused about which forms to file, which ones to serve, and what needed to be completed. It was clear he had a lot of questions and was feeling lost. As we went through the documents together, it became apparent just how inadequate this service had been.

The Problems Uncovered

First, he had received about 20 forms that he didn’t need. These unnecessary documents only added to his confusion. On top of that, he was missing critical forms that were essential for his divorce process. This is a common issue I see with clients who use online services. They often end up with a mishmash of documents that don’t align with their specific needs.

To make matters worse, the court assigned to him, based on an address provided by the online service, was incorrect. Had he followed through and filed these documents, he would have ended up in the wrong court entirely. This could have delayed his process significantly.

Additionally, there were two different types of petitions included in the paperwork. If he had filed the petition that was sent to him, he would have been charged double the normal filing fee, potentially costing him an additional $435. This is a critical point; understanding the correct petition to file is essential, and these online services fail to provide that clarity.

The False Promise of Quick and Easy Solutions

One of the biggest selling points for these online services is the promise that it will only take a few minutes to complete the forms. My client, however, spent over four and a half hours trying to fill them out, only to find that the documents were completely wrong. He ended up wasting both his time and his money, and ultimately had to come to my office for assistance.

This scenario is not unique. I encounter numerous clients who have had similar experiences with online document services. They come to me after realizing the forms they purchased were inadequate or incorrect. It’s frustrating to see people fall into this trap, thinking they are making a smart choice.

What Should You Do Instead?

If you find yourself in a situation where you need to file for divorce, here are some alternatives to consider:

• Visit Your Local Courthouse: You can obtain the necessary forms for free by visiting your local courthouse. This way, you can ensure you have the correct documents for your case.
• Contact a Legal Professional: If you’re unsure about the process, reach out to a legal professional. They can guide you through the steps and help you understand what forms you need to file.
• Email for Assistance: If you need forms but cannot afford to pay for them, I encourage you to reach out. You can email me, and I will send you all the necessary forms at no cost.

Remember, the forms required for a divorce are available for free, and there is no reason to pay for them. You can also find these forms online on the court’s website. If you don’t have access to a computer, feel free to contact me via phone or send a letter, and I’ll ensure you receive the forms you need.

Understanding the Risks of Online Services

Many of these online divorce document companies invest heavily in marketing, making them seem like a viable option. However, the reality is that they often provide subpar service that can lead to costly mistakes. It’s crucial to be wary of these companies and recognize that they may not have your best interests in mind.

Using a professional service can save you time, money, and headaches in the long run. When you work with someone who understands the legal process, you can avoid the pitfalls that come with DIY divorce forms. I always encourage potential clients to consider this option instead of risking their divorce proceedings with an online service.

Final Thoughts

This gentleman’s experience is just one of many that I see regularly. It serves as a reminder of the importance of seeking proper legal assistance when navigating the divorce process. Don’t be fooled by the allure of quick and easy solutions. Instead, take the time to understand your options and choose a path that ensures your divorce is handled correctly.

If you have more time than money, consider reaching out for the free forms instead of paying for them. You don’t have to go through this process alone; there are resources available to help you. You can contact me at 661-281-0266 or visit my website at divorce661.com for more information.

Remember, you deserve a smooth and fair divorce process. Don’t let online services jeopardize your chances of achieving that. Take control of your situation and seek the help you need.

Thank you for reading, and I wish you the best in your journey ahead.