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Five Risks of Pursuing a Do-It-Yourself Divorce

A notable number of people elect to pursue what can be called a do-it-yourself divorce in New Jersey and elsewhere around the country. There are pair of primary reasons why people elect to take the do-it-yourself divorce route:

They believe that they can save money by going the do-it-yourself route.

They believe their divorce is fairly basic and they don’t need professional legal assistance.

The reality is that there are considerable risks associated with pursuing a divorce on a do-it-yourself basis. Five of the more commonplace risks associated with pursuing a do-it-yourself divorce are:

  • Failure to make proper court filings
  • Failure to prepare appropriate divorce paperwork
  • Limited understanding of divorce law
  • Inability to undertake meaningful negotiations in regard to a possible settlement
  • Inability to pursue necessary case-related investigation
Failure to Make Proper Court Filings

A major risk that exists when going the DIY divorce route is the inability or failure to make proper court filings. New Jersey divorce law sets forth specific ways in which documents must be filed with the court. Moreover, the law establishes specific deadlines by which documents must be filed with the court. The failure to make court filings in a proper manner and within a mandated time frame can result in the dismissal of a marriage dissolution case.

Failure to Prepare Appropriate Divorce Paperwork

On a related note, another prevalent problem among people who attempt to take the do-it-yourself divorce course is an inability or failure to prepare properly appropriate paperwork related to the proceedings. Not only are errors made in regard to filing documents, mistakes and oversights are made in the very preparation of them in the first instance. As is the case with filing errors and oversights, the failure to properly prepare divorce paperwork (technically known as pleadings) can have seriously negative consequences that include the dismissal of a marriage dissolution case.

Limited Understanding of Divorce Law

A DIY divorce can result in problems for a party to a marriage dissolution case. The reality is that a person who is not trained as a legal professional will necessarily lack an ideal understanding of applicable New Jersey divorce law. Even a lawyer who practices in another area of the law will be disinclined to represent his or her self in a divorce case.

Inability to Undertake Meaningful Negotiations in Regard to a Possible Settlement

A considerable percentage of New Jersey divorce cases are resolved through a settlement between the parties. One of the benefits associated with retaining legal counsel in a marriage dissolution case is the fact that a skilled New Jersey divorce lawyer is adept at negotiating a settlement that is consistent with your legal rights and objectives. A layperson simply does not have the background necessary to take on divorce settlement negotiations as effectively as a seasoned attorney is able to do in a case.

Inability to Pursue Necessary Case-Related Investigation

Many divorce cases necessitate research and investigation in order to a party to a marriage dissolution proceeding to be able to make sound decisions. For example, if a party to a divorce case is concealing or hiding assets, demonstrating that this is occurring can require investigation and an understanding of forensics accounting. A seasoned New Jersey divorce attorney has access to resources that can include in the investigation of issues that may arise in a particular marriage dissolution case. These include professionals who work in the accounting, child welfare, and other arenas. With access to these types of professionals and associated resources, you are placed in the best position to make the strongest case in your marriage dissolution case.

Protect Your Legal Rights: Consult with an Experienced New Jersey Divorce Lawyer Today

If you are considering pursuing a divorce, you are wise to schedule a free initial consultation with an experienced, dedicated New Jersey divorce attorney as soon as possible. You can schedule a free initial consultation with a New Jersey divorce lawyer by calling the Law Offices of Peter Van Aulen at (201) 845-7400. We can arrange a free initial consultation and case evaluation at a time that works with your schedule.


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Peter has integrity, and values his relationships with his clients beyond his financial relationship with them. For me to say this about any lawyer is really saying something. He is compassionate, straightforward and knowledgeable. I would easily recommend him to anybody. Lewie W.
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Peter Van Aulen handled my case with great diligence and integrity. He is also a compassionate individual who realizes what a difficult time divorce can be emotionally. Peter works hard and doesn't take any shortcuts in preparing for a case… I highly recommend Mr. Van Aulen and his staff. Chuck Solomon
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Peter is an exceptionally great attorney. He handled my child custody case and was able to ease any of my concerns with honest answers. He always took the time to explain the pros/cons and was always available to answer any questions that I had… I would highly recommend this attorney to anyone who is looking for one. Jessica Cruz
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Peter Van Aulen is a very compassionate, honest and straightforward person. He was there for me at my lowest point with a genuine concern not only for my situation, but for me and my child's well being above all… He is fair and he is strong and when push comes to shove he is there for you. Cathy Dodge
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Our cousin used Peter's law office to help with a sticky custody situation. He was extremely responsive, very nice and most importantly did an awesome job with the court! He is awesome. Lawrence Polsky
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