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Divorce Lawyers New York - Pro Se Divorces

Pro Se Divorces

The cost of a divorce, including attorney fees, can range from fifteen hundred dollars for an uncontested case to five figures for a contested case. Thus, it is no wonder why many people decide to file on their own without an attorney. This is known as filing Pro Se. A pro se divorce where both parties are in agreement can be accomplished without an attorney. However, I would never recommend that someone files pro se. The process has become more and more specialized in terms of what documents need to be filed and the rules which must be complied with in finalizing the case.

Sometimes, but not often, self-representation is possible. It truly depends upon the issues involved and the capabilities of the pro se litigant. It has worked in situations where:

Both parties agree;
There are no minor children;
There are no issues in dispute;
The party can dedicate the time to learn the process;
There is no property to divide;

Importantly, many courts are not amenable to pro se litigants. The law and procedures must be followed just as if an attorney were involved. The court cannot make any accommodations simply because the person is not represented by counsel.

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