7 Useful Tips To Get A Divorce With No Money

Don’t let your financial woes stop you from getting a divorce from your partner.

Reviewed by Margaret F Terrasi, JD Margaret F Terrasi Margaret F TerrasiJD linkedin_icon Specialty: Family LawExperience: 12 years
Written by Shikha Thakur Shikha Thakur
Last Updated on
7 Tips To Get A Divorce With No Money

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“How to get a divorce with no money?” This probably has to be the most commonly asked question while planning a divorce. It should be noted that a divorce might turn out to be an expensive one and burn a big hole in your pocket if you are not financially prepared for the separation. But there are ways to reduce the divorce costs as well. And we bring them to you in this post. Continue reading to know about ways to get a divorce without spending money.

Can You Get Divorce With No Money?

It may not always be possible to get a divorce at zero cost. But in some cases, you could get through the divorce proceedings at low or no cost.

1. File fee-waiver petition

  • Gather information: Waiver for divorce fees is available for people who belong to the low-income group and cannot afford the divorce expenses. It is scheduled at the state level and you will have to show proof of the income at the court’s level. You can contact the state court clerk and gather information about divorce fee-waiver based on your finances or income. Show your documents and let them know that you cannot afford a lawyer.
  • Fill the form: Fill the fee-waiver petition form with your personal information, including the name and address of both the spouses, details of minor children, and reason for divorce. If you are not comfortable to prove the reasons, a few states may allow irreconcilable differences (mutual decision of divorce when spouses cannot get along) as the reason.
  • Submit proofs: Along with personal details, you need to list your income, property, investment, savings, or cash balances, if any. The copies of bank statements, bills, and other financial documents must be submitted along with the petition. Sign the petition form and the affidavit before submitting it. The clerk would get the paperwork verified, notarize your forms and statements, and schedule a hearing with the judge.

2. Try out mediation divorce

Mediation is a flexible way to get a divorce. It gives you and your spouse a chance to settle the conflicts and mutually come to a decision. In some cases, mediation divorce doesn’t require a lawyer and cuts down the divorce-related cost significantly.

Mediation is all about working on the case together for the best interests of the spouses and children. Also, this type of divorce is private and confidential, saving time, effort, and money (1) (2). However, if you need a mediator for help, then it may incur some cost. You will still need to proceed with the court process, but this eliminates any fighting along the way.

3. Look for free or low-priced services

Plenty of states have specified services to help people with low or no income resources to afford a lawyer or divorce fees. For instance, several law firms take up pro bono (professional work is undertaken without payment) cases where the couple is not charged but offered standardized services.

Couples who want to get a divorce at no cost can visit the courts in their town or city and look for inexpensive or zero-cost options. This process may take a lot of time, but you may find the right way to proceed with the divorce at a low cost.

4. Go for legal help at a reduced cost

You may find some lawyers who would guide you through the entire process and charge a minimal fee. However, they would not represent you at the hearing in court. You can call the bar association of your town or city or state and ask if you can find such legal experts. Once you get their contact information, explain your case, objectives, and financial status to them.

5. Seek help from a paralegal

A paralegal has knowledge of legal matters and has been trained, but is not completely qualified to be a lawyer. Several states do permit the paralegals to help people in guiding and drafting paperwork. But, if your state doesn’t allow it, you should not do it. Do check your state laws before seeking advice from the paralegals.

6. Ask for legal guidance from the government

Some states offer legal aid to the citizens through a legal help society, city or state bar, or volunteer legal representatives. These volunteers or legal helpers may charge zero or significantly low fees. You can ask your friends or families to refer or check online for such professional volunteer lawyers ready to take up the divorce.

7. Pro Se representation

It is also called do-it-yourself divorce. Pro Se (or Pro Per) means a self-representation of your case in the court without any lawyer. People who cannot afford lawyers choose this option. It is helpful in small cases such as car accidents, property issues, or divorce. You can seek information from the local bar association or the city or state council. It may not be easy to represent yourself if the other party is in disagreement or files additional legal complaints (3).

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is the average cost of divorce?

The average cost of divorce ranges from $12,000 to $15,000. Divorce with no significant contested issues costs approximately $5000. Issues like child custody, child support, and alimony increase the cost of a divorce. The amount may change considering attorney charges.

2. Can my spouse take money out of a joint account before I move out?

The money saved in a joint account isn’t considered marital property. Both will have the right to withdraw the money from the account. However, there is no need to worry because your attorney and the court will look into the matter and take legal measures.

Divorce can be an expensive affair. So, if you have been trying to figure out how to get a divorce with no money, perhaps a few of our tips will be helpful. Now that you know the ways to cut costs on the divorce, choose a method that is suitable for your situation. Check all your marriage and financial documents carefully before filing any requests. Further, fill out the forms carefully and maintain a copy of your documents. You may also seek the help of legal representative volunteers to file a divorce at a lower cost. Although the process is time-consuming, the money saved will make the effort worthwhile.

Key Pointers

  • A zero-cost divorce may not be possible but you may file a fee-waiver petition, or try cost effective, out of court settlement.
  • You may seek help from a paralegal or look for free or low-price services.
  • Find out if your state offers legal aid to the citizens.

References

1. John R. Allison; Five Ways to Keep Disputes Out of Court; Harvard Business Review (1990)
2. Mediation/Alternative Dispute Resolution; State of Indiana
3. Pro Se Litigants/Representing Yourself; United States District Court
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Margaret F Terrasi
Margaret F TerrasiJD
Maggie Terrasi is an attorney in Southeast Michigan, having graduated from the law school in 2003. Having 12 years of professional experience, she works with families to help them through the difficult times of custody or divorce and has been able to help clients protect their assets with estate planning ideas.

Read full bio of Margaret F Terrasi
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