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Thanks to the internet and easily available resources, more and more people are trying Do-It-Yourself divorce. In Ohio, this process is referred to as a pro se (on your behalf) divorce. Like any divorce, it involves completing paperwork, filing it with the correct court and attending a hearing. But is a DIY divorce right for you?
People wanting to do a DIY divorce are often concerned about the costs involved in hiring an attorney. Not everyone should do a divorce themselves, and several factors can make a difference. You and your spouse are good candidates for a DIY divorce if...
Those who have children can do a DIY divorce as well, but both parties must agree to every issue concerning their children—custody, visitation, and child support—as well as fill out a Shared Parenting Plan and other additional documents required by the state of Ohio.
One of the reasons you may want to do a DIY divorce is because of the money you can save, but it’s important to remember the time involved. Do you have time to make sure you have the correct forms and documents, research your particular state and county’s laws, gather needed documentation, file papers and appear in court?
Before starting on the process of filling out the required forms, check with the county clerk to make sure you have everything you need. Ohio provides state-specific forms online but your county may require additional paperwork.
Once you are certain you have the appropriate paperwork, take your time filling them out. If you feel that you need help or have trouble understanding a document, you can always pay an attorney, paralegal or legal document assistant an hourly fee to look over your documents.
If you decide to use a paralegal or legal document assistant, remember that they are unable to give legal advice but they can prepare forms with the information you supply and file them with the court. Legal advice may only be given by a qualified licensed lawyer.
The Ohio State Legal Services organization website has helpful informational brochures and packets on DIY divorce.
To file for divorce in Ohio, at least one party must have lived in the state for six months before filing. Ohio also requires that one spouse resides in the filing county for at least 90 days.
The required documents will vary depending on circumstances and what county you live, but the following is a list of basic paperwork that you will need for most Ohio DIY Divorces. You should photocopy every one of these documents for your records as well.
If you have minor children, your dissolution must also include the following documents and forms in addition to the ones above:
Each county has its own rules and paperwork requirements. You can find out more information on their websites:
Franklin County Court of Common Pleas Domestic Relations and Juvenile Division
Delaware County Clerk of Courts, Domestic Relations
Licking County Domestic Relations Court
Union County Domestic Relations Court
Have questions about divorce in Ohio? Need legal advice? Contact Jack's Law Office at (740)369-7567.
Jack’s Law Office
305 S Sandusky St
Delaware, OH 43015
(740) 369-7567