Is it a Good Idea to Use Online Legal Services for Divorce in Illinois?
Now more than ever, technology allows us to do all kinds of things online. Activities that were only possible face-to-face just ten years ago have now become ubiquitous in the online world. Among the explosion of online utilities now available is a wide variety of legal services that allow users to do anything from creating a will to getting a divorce.
These services advertise themselves as easy, less expensive alternatives to in-person legal counsel from a qualified attorney. Although in some cases this may be true, it is certainly not always wise to use online divorce technology, and doing so may end up costing you significant amounts of time and money in the long run.
Is it Ever a Good Idea to Use Illinois Divorce Websites?
There are many reasons that a “do-it-yourself” divorce may seem appealing. Low costs, faster processing time, and fewer complications all sound great - especially if you are trying to separate from a hostile spouse as soon as possible.
Online divorce offers childless spouses who do not own property a seemingly simple, timesaving alternative to costly courtroom litigation. However, even divorces that may seem simple to the unqualified eye can turn out to be quite complex. Things like joint bank accounts, inheritances, and invalid prenuptial agreements can all quickly complicate what may or may not be considered marital property, leaving online users confused and unable to reach an experienced divorce attorney for personalized assistance.
When Is Using an Online Divorce Service a Bad Idea?
As the process moves forward and the complications of your divorce are revealed, online divorce services can quickly lose their luster. Mistakes, errors, and the inability to anticipate complications can lead to delays and additional expenses. There is no room for error in legal paperwork; if a mistake is made, the paperwork cannot be filed and must be redone.
How do you know whether the prenup you signed five years ago was valid? If you worked and supported your spouse through school, can they turn around and ask you for spousal support? Having your own attorney who understands the facts of your unique circumstances is an invaluable resource when problems arise. Furthermore, if your spouse is the vengeful type who may unexpectedly ask for things you are unwilling to give, having an attorney to advocate for you can be the difference between having the divorce go your way and a decidedly unfavorable outcome.
Speak with a Will County Divorce Attorney
If you are planning to get a divorce, speak with a qualified Joliet divorce attorney before you take any major steps. Although online divorce may be a possibility for certain couples, for many others it can be an expensive and time-consuming disaster. At Reeder & Brown, P.C., we have experience working with all kinds of divorces and can work with you to make your divorce process as smooth and simple as possible. Call us today at 815-885-5980 and let us show you how we can help. Schedule your free consultation today.
Source:
https://www.ilga.gov/legislation/ilcs/ilcs4.asp?DocName=075000050HPt%2E+IV&ActID=2086&ChapterID=59&SeqStart=3900000&SeqEnd=5400000
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From our office in Joliet, Illinois we serve the communities of Plainfield, Lockport, Crest Hill, New Lenox, Mokena, Romeoville, Homer Glen, Bolingbrook, Naperville, Aurora and Will County.
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58 North Chicago Street, Suite 404, Joliet, IL 60432815-885-5980
