Online divorce services have been available for decades, offering an alternative way to navigate the challenging process of divorce.
This guide aims to provide you with a comprehensive overview of the best online divorce services available.
We’ll explore their pros and cons to help you make an informed choice on whether online divorce is the right path for you.
What you'll learn:
➤ Best Online Divorce Services
| COMPANY | COST | SERVICES | GUARANTEE |
|---|---|---|---|
| Divorce.com | $299 (and up) | Document preparation, mediation, lawyer consultations | Fully guaranteed: refund or free changes if documents not accepted by court |
| 3StepDivorce | $299 | Clear forms with instructions, customizable forms for different needs, negotiation tool, fee-splitting options available | 100% guarantee that your documents will be accepted by your state’s court |
| Legal Zoom | $499 | Clear forms with instructions, customizable forms for different needs, negotiation tool | 100% guarantee that your documents will be accepted by your state’s court |
| DivorceNet | $159 | Document preparation, free case evaluation, free mediation session | 100% money back guarantee |
| DivorceWriter | $137 plus printing and shipping | Document preparation, filing instructions | Full refund if documents aren’t accepted |
1️⃣ Divorce.com (Best Overall)
| Cost | Services Offered | Acceptance Guarantee |
|---|---|---|
| $299 (and up) | Document preparation, mediation, lawyer consultations | Fully guaranteed: refund or free changes if documents not accepted by court |
Divorce.com stands out as the most hassle-free and effortless online divorce service among those we reviewed. While its $299 fee covers only document preparation, it boasts a user-friendly and well-designed interface.
Divorce.com also provides additional services, including a free mediation call and an optional lawyer consultation for an extra $75, with the added benefit of a 25% discount on their fees. Notably, this service is available in both the United States and Canada, making it a unique option.
Divorce.com is an ideal choice for individuals seeking an online service rather than hiring an attorney and prefer having mediation and attorney options available.
However, it’s important to note that the forms cannot be customized, and the service lacks specific details about your state’s filing procedures.
Pros & Cons:
- Fully guaranteed
- User-friendly interface
- Offers mediation and lawyer consultations
- Forms cannot be customized
- Advertises unrelated services like a dating app, weight loss program, and life insurance on their site
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2️⃣ 3StepDivorce (Most Flexible Payments)
| Cost | Services Offered | Acceptance Guarantee |
|---|---|---|
| $299 | Clear forms with instructions, customizable forms, negotiation tool, fee-splitting options | 100% guarantee that your documents will be accepted by your state’s court |
3StepDivorce earns our recommendation due to its provision of clear, customizable forms and an online negotiation tool to facilitate reaching a consensus with your spouse in a relatively painless manner.
A standout feature is the option to split the $299 fee into two, three, or four payments at a nominal markup, making it accessible for those who can’t afford the full fee upfront.
This service is best suited for individuals who cannot afford a large upfront fee and don’t require attorney consultations.
Pros & Cons:
- Established in 1997 (a long track record)
- Flexible payment options
- Relatively high price
- Lacks additional service options like attorney review
3️⃣ Legal Zoom (Best Attorney-Reviewed)
| Cost | Services Offered | Acceptance Guarantee |
|---|---|---|
| $499 | Clear forms with instructions, customizable forms, negotiation tool | 100% guarantee that your documents will be accepted by your state’s court |
LegalZoom provides clear forms that can be customized if needed. The standout feature of this service is the inclusion of attorney review as part of the fee, providing peace of mind for an additional $200.
The platform also offers an online negotiation tool for couples looking to work out their divorce arrangements independently.
LegalZoom is an excellent choice for individuals who want the reassurance of attorney-reviewed documents and for couples who need assistance in reaching a settlement.
Pros & Cons:
- Good interface
- Clear instructions and customizable documents
- Online negotiation tool
- Attorney review and guaranteed acceptance
- Higher price
4️⃣ DivorceNet (Best Free Perks)
| Cost | Services Offered | Acceptance Guarantee |
|---|---|---|
| $159 | Document preparation, free case evaluation, free mediation session | 100% money-back guarantee |
DivorceNet, owned by Nolo, a reputable name in the legal information industry for 50 years, offers a straightforward and reasonably priced divorce document service.
What sets it apart is the opportunity to access free services, such as a free 30-minute divorce mediation session and a free case evaluation by an attorney.
DivorceNet is an excellent choice if you prefer completing your divorce documents independently but anticipate the need for mediation or legal assistance.
Pros & Cons:
- Free mediation session
- Free case evaluation by an attorney
- Benefits from Nolo’s reputation
- Basic document preparation service
- Mid-range pricing
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5️⃣ DivorceWriter (Best No-Rush)
| Cost | Services Offered | Acceptance Guarantee |
|---|---|---|
| $137 plus printing and shipping | Document preparation, filing instructions | Full refund if documents aren’t accepted |
DivorceWriter falls into the same price point as several other online divorce services, making it an economical choice. It offers the unique advantage of allowing unlimited revisions for 24 months at no additional cost.
While there is a small fee for printing and shipping your documents, DivorceWriter guarantees that the court will accept the provided documents, and it provides two years of free revisions.
DivorceWriter is a suitable option for those in no rush to file for divorce and who want to save money, as it doesn’t provide extensive support.
Pros & Cons:
- Guaranteed acceptance
- Ample time for revising documents
- Extra cost for document printing and mailing
- Support is only available through email
➤ What Is an Online Divorce Service?
Online divorce services are websites that assist individuals in completing divorce forms independently. Users can then file these forms and proceed with the court procedures on their own.
There are numerous online divorce services available, each with varying prices and services, making it essential to compare and contrast them before making a choice.
It’s important to note that these services do not finalize the divorce or interact with the court directly; instead, they function as document preparation services.
How to Choose the Best Online Divorce Service
Selecting the right online divorce service begins with evaluating your individual needs and capabilities. To determine which service suits you best, consider the following questions:
- Comfort with Legal Forms: Do you feel comfortable completing legal forms yourself, or would you prefer a service to handle this part for you?
- Attorney Review: Are you interested in having an attorney review your paperwork before filing it?
- Access to Legal Advice: Do you want the option to pay an additional fee to consult with a lawyer?
- Timeline: Are you in a hurry to complete the divorce process, or are you willing to take your time?
- Negotiation Needs: Do you require assistance with negotiating terms with your spouse, or are you both in agreement?
Once you have a clear understanding of your needs and preferences, you can explore online divorce services that align with them. Compare their ratings and prices to determine the most suitable option for your situation.
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Essential Services
When opting for an online divorce service, it’s crucial to ensure that they provide state-specific forms that are acceptable in your local court. This is the minimum requirement when selecting a service.
While access to attorneys, mediation, negotiation services, and informative articles about the divorce process can be valuable, they are not considered essential.
Court Acceptance Guarantee
When you invest in an online divorce service, it’s essential to verify that the forms they generate will be accepted by your local court. Reputable services typically offer a guarantee that your documents will be accepted, and in case of rejection, they may offer a refund or corrections.
Pricing & Fees
Online divorce services offer significant cost savings compared to hiring an attorney, with prices starting at around $137. Additional services, such as attorney consultations or having your forms printed and mailed, may come at an extra cost.
You can further reduce expenses by printing the forms yourself, but this approach lacks guidance on completing the forms.
Keep in mind that higher-priced services may provide additional benefits, such as lawyer reviews and consultations, offering peace of mind for those who opt for these options.
How to Prepare for a Divorce
Divorce is an emotionally charged process that primarily focuses on financial matters within the court system. To prepare for a divorce, consider the following steps:
- Ensure Your Decision: Be certain about your desire for a divorce.
- Communicate with Your Spouse: Attempt to reach a settlement and agree on divorce terms.
- Gather Documentation: Collect essential financial and legal documents.
- Determine Your Approach: Decide whether you’ll file for divorce on your own, with an online divorce service, or through an attorney.
- Know the Legal Requirements: Familiarize yourself with divorce requirements in your state.
- Evaluate Your Support Needs: Determine if you need legal, mediation, or online services.
Divorce is a significant decision, and it affects your financial stability and parenting rights for the long term. Ensure your choices are well-informed.
When Should You Get An Attorney?
Online divorce services are most suitable for uncontested divorces, where both spouses agree on the terms and have reached a settlement. In such cases, the divorce process mainly involves paperwork, and the challenging aspects have already been resolved.
However, if your divorce involves complex financial situations, disputes with your spouse, or issues like hidden assets or domestic abuse, hiring an attorney is advisable. An attorney can provide guidance, ensure your rights are protected, and help you make informed decisions.
Additionally, if you require an annulment rather than a divorce, an online divorce service may not be suitable, and you should consult with an attorney.
In summary, online divorce services are ideal when your situation is straightforward and uncontested. For more complex or contentious divorces, consulting with an attorney is a prudent choice.
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➤ Best Online Divorce Services FAQ
Will my court accept online divorce papers?
While online divorce services do not offer legal advice and cannot guarantee court acceptance, they strive to meet the requirements of different states.
Some services provide guarantees that their prepared paperwork will be accepted, with a refund or corrections if not.
Are online divorces legal?
Online divorce services facilitate the paperwork preparation process, but the divorce itself requires in-person actions such as signing documents in the presence of a notary and filing with the court.
It’s legal to have the paperwork prepared online, but the actual divorce process involves court procedures.
Are there other online divorce services?
Many other online divorce services exist, and some may be state-specific or regional. Some attorneys also offer online services in addition to traditional practices.
Exploring various options is advisable before making a choice.
Can I get a divorce online for free?
Qualifying as “indigent” or a “poor person” according to your state’s financial requirements may allow you to have court fees waived.
Some states offer free online access to divorce forms through their websites. However, a free divorce typically involves no legal assistance or guidance.
How long does an online divorce take?
Online divorce services claim that form completion can take under an hour. However, the overall duration depends on additional steps, such as printing, signing, serving your spouse, filing with the court, and potential waiting periods.
The time it takes to finalize the divorce may range from a few months to longer, depending on state requirements.
Can you get a divorce without a lawyer?
You can proceed with a divorce without an attorney, known as representing yourself “pro se.” Online divorce services can assist with form preparation if you choose this route.
What is an uncontested divorce?
An uncontested divorce occurs when both spouses agree on all divorce terms and issues. No trial is necessary as the settlement is reached mutually. The terms of the settlement agreement become the basis for the divorce judgment.
In cases where one spouse does not respond to divorce papers, the filing spouse can proceed with an uncontested divorce. A contested divorce, on the other hand, involves disputes and may require a trial.
How do I check the status of my divorce online?
If you are using an online divorce service, you can contact their customer service to inquire about the status of your document preparation.
Once you have filed your papers with the court, many states offer online systems for tracking the status of your divorce case using a provided case number.
Alternatively, you can call the court clerk for updates, and if you have an attorney, they can keep you informed about your case’s status.
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