MICHIGAN DIVORCE TOP TIPS #5: Online Forms Don't Keep You "Out of Court"

It is a common misconception that you can stay “out of court” in divorce or family law matters if you use online forms. Make no mistake: you cannot be divorced “online” without a court filing.

I frequently represent panicked clients who “accidentally” started a traditional divorce lawsuit using Do-It-Yourself online forms. Once they filed their DIY paperwork, they were surprised to learn they were given a trial date. They find themselves on the steep end of the learning curve in divorce court, facing court dates and litigation obligations without a handle on what is expected of them or where to begin.

Many attorneys, like our firm, offer Limited Scope Services. If you do not want or cannot afford an attorney for an entire case, many attorneys will assist you on a “by the hour” or “by the project” basis. There are many common — and serious — mistakes made using Do-It-Yourself forms. Quality legal assistance can help avoid some very costly, and often permanent, mistakes.

For my recent video and notes on the most common mistakes we see when clients use Do-It-Yourself or online forms, please see my new video at: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GO3NW3JF5qQ&t=69s