Online divorce filing?

[vanhalenfan]

I have a quick question. I am going to be filing for divorce within the next few weeks. I have already contacted a few attorneys for consultations. I have a very simple, uncontested divorce. We have no assets, nothing to "argue" over. We are unfortunately quite broke, which is why I began thinking about online divorce filing, such as Legal Zoom. Does this really work? It seems like many have said so in researching unbiased reviews. Did anybody here do this? Most of the attorneys have told me it'll be $2,000-$3,000 + here in NJ for me to file with their help/guidance. I just don't have that kind of money lying around, and I don't want to wait until next tax season to come up with that money to finally push through with the divorce. We have agreed to all terms and he's willing to sign and I know his location. We do have two young children, but we've already agreed to terms on support and custody agreements.

 

Thank you in advance for your advice!

[aisuru]

Since you have kids, I wouldn't do it online. You're doing yourself a disservice.

[Deerhunter]

My ex and I had two small children when we divorced in 1994. We worked everything out as far as the kids were concerned. We had a lawyer draw it up and file it. I believe it was $240 uncontested. No court appearances and it was final in 3 weeks. If NJ, wants that much for the same exact divorce, go to another state and file. Office Depot even has a Do It Yourself Divorce packet. You still have to pay court costs. No getting around that. Good luck!

[Techie Artist]

Hi, VanFan. I'm in NJ and have read thru a lot of info. The amount you quote is rather high. I don't recommend LegalZoom. Try the state's Family Court website. There's a form to fill out. Take advantage of a free consultation with 1-3 lawyers in your area. I think the pro se (self representation) or mediation is the least expensive.