When you consider filing fees and other legal costs, getting a divorce in Virginia can be as expensive as a wedding. Because of how costly and drawn out a divorce process can be, the Commonwealth of Virginia has tried to make the process as simple as possible—provided you meet specific criteria.
If you want to get divorced and are searching for a less expensive way forward, you and your spouse may want to consider an uncontested divorce.
What is an Uncontested Divorce?
An uncontested divorce is a process available if you and your spouse agree on all the issues surrounding your divorce. These issues could include topics such as:
- Alimony
- Child custody
- Child support
- Division of assets
- Division of debts
- Parenting time
- Visitation time
Keep in mind that if you file for an uncontested divorce in Virginia, it still may be necessary for both you and your spouse to appear in court, even if you agree on all the issues. However, the court proceeding should be much less complicated as compared to a contested divorce.
Additionally, you and your spouse may choose to file for your uncontested divorce online using an online service. This process is inexpensive and fast.
It’s important to note that an uncontested divorce doesn’t always mean a speedy divorce. In the Commonwealth of Virginia, there is a mandatory waiting period before you can file an uncontested divorce. If you don’t have any children from the marriage and you have a properly executed Separation Agreement, you can file for your uncontested divorce after waiting for six months. If you have minor children, you must wait for one year even if you have a properly drafted and signed separation agreement.
Keep in mind the process for the uncontested divorce, once filed, can vary from county to county, so it’s always best to consult with an attorney or the Clerk of the Court in your county to understand the application requirements in your county.
How Do You File for A Low-Cost Divorce in Virginia?
Under the process of filing for an uncontested divorce in Virginia, you will be able to complete your divorce without the services of an attorney. However, it would be wise to hire an attorney or use an online divorce service to make sure the divorce documents are correct before submitting them to the court.
Below are the steps you should take to obtain a low-cost divorce in the Commonwealth of Virginia.
- Get and Complete the Paperwork. You should be able to obtain the necessary forms from your local district court or on their website. Reputable online serviceswill have the documents you need. Be sure to fill them out accurately and completely. When you submit the completed forms to the court clerk, you will be responsible for paying a filing fee.
- Serve Your Spouse. You will then have to serve the filed documents to your spouse. It is always wise to hire a private service processing person to do this for you or your local county sheriff. You must obtain Proof of Service and file it with the court.
- Wait to Hear From the Court. If all the requirements have been met and the paperwork has been filed, the final judgment’s time period depends on the judge’s schedule and other factors.
What Do I Look For When Using an Online Divorce Service?
When choosing an online divorce service, you should consider the following:
- What if You Need Legal Advice? Make sure the service offers an attorney consultation if you run into problems or have questions.
- What If You Don’t Understand Some Things? Legal jargon can be confusing to the average person. Look for a website that offers active and friendly customer support to assist you at any time.
- How Long Does It Take Them to Finish the Paperwork? Some online divorce websites can take days to complete your paperwork while others may have it to you within 48 hours. Make sure you choose an efficient platform.
If You Want to Have a Low-Cost Divorce, Look at DiPietro Law Group Today
Your divorce doesn’t have to be complicated or expensive if you and your spouse agree on all the issues. An uncontested divorce is a low-cost and mostly stress-free process that may take just a few months to be completed. Visit Dipietro Law Group today for your free consultation.