Divorce Kit-Everything You Need to Do It Yourself

To end a marriage, both spouses usually hire lawyers to represent them.  This method is the most commonly used but it could be financially draining to both parties.  One cheap alternative to get a divorce is to use a divorce kit.  Divorce kits contain all the necessary forms both parties need to fill up and present to the court. It can be purchased through an attorney but today, there are software and online application forms available.
 A divorce kit sounds like a good idea to terminate your marriage.  It seems like the best option since you don’t have to go through the normal, mentally, emotionally and financially exhausting process.  However, divorce kits should only be considered under certain circumstances.  The first is that both parties have already agreed on the terms of their divorce, legal division of financial assets and properties, child custody and support and alimonies. 

Second, your marriage should end in a no-fault divorce.  If you can’t meet these two conditions, then you shouldn’t even think of considering using a divorce kit.  A no-fault divorce means just like how it sounds; no one is at fault.  It’s a situation where both parties did nothing wrong or turned back on their vows, but they wish their marriage terminated. Whenever you hear a marriage that ended due to "irreconcilable differences", that usually means it’s a no-fault divorce. 

 Since you won’t be hiring any lawyers, you will need to take care of the following yourself.

• Personal Information of both the husband and the wife.  Full name, date of birth, date and location of their marriage and the place where their divorce will be filed

• The spouse must meet a residency requirement.  Every state has a residency requirement; if you can’t meet the requirement in your state, you can’t file your divorce papers.

• Both parties should agree on child custody and support.  A mutual decision has to be made whether there will be joint custody or which parent will be granted primary custody.  The issue of how much child support one parent is required to give will also be covered as well as any other expenses incurred for the child’s welfare.

• Both parties should agree on the division of properties and assets.  You should list down all assets you share with your spouse, provide all the necessary information to make things easier for both you and your spouse.  Everything must be discussed and ironed out, especially mortgages and debts.  Common sense dictates that whoever will be living on the mortgaged property should be responsible for refinancing; the name of the other spouse should no longer be included in the loan.

• Another issue both party should agree upon is the alimony; who should provide it and how much. 

Most divorce kits come with an instruction manual so you won’t be confused throughout the ordeal.  However, if you still don’t understand some of the steps and requirements, approach a lawyer and consult your case.  Divorce kits certainly isn’t for everybody; it requires that both parties to be in the same page before the termination of their marriage.