Divorce
Ending a marriage when money is tight
Splitting one household into two costs more than anyone planned for. We help you work out who stays, who pays what and what to ask the judge for, before you sign anything.
You don’t have to decide everything today. Start with what worries you most, and we’ll show you what usually follows.
We can help you with
Filing for divorce, or answering papers you were served
Dividing a house, a car, debts and retirement savings
A separation agreement you understand line by line
Asking for spousal support, or responding to a request
Going back to a name you used before
The road ahead
Five things that happen between “I’m done” and “it’s final”
Step 1: You gather the basics
Pay stubs, the mortgage and loan statements, and a list of what you own and owe. We give you the checklist.
Step 2: You decide what you can agree on
Many couples agree on more than they expect. Every agreement is one less thing to argue in front of a judge.
Step 3: Papers are filed or answered
We prepare them, explain each one and make sure the deadlines are met.
Step 4: You settle, or you go to a hearing
We prepare you for either one, including what the courtroom looks like and what you’ll be asked.
Step 5: A judge makes it final
Then we check the paperwork: names, accounts, titles and deeds changed to match.
Divorce questions we get on the first call
Who keeps the house?
It depends on whose name is on the deed and the mortgage, whether children live there, and what you and your spouse can agree on. We look at your numbers and tell you which choices are realistic.
Do I have to pay my spouse’s debts?
Sometimes. Debts you took on together, or for the household, are treated differently from debts one person ran up alone. Bring the statements and we’ll sort them with you.
Can I divorce someone who won’t sign?
Yes. A spouse who refuses to cooperate can slow things down but can’t stop a divorce. We’ll explain how the other person is formally notified.
How long does it take?
It depends on your state’s waiting rules and on whether the two of you agree. At your first visit we’ll tell you which timeline applies to you.
Not sure where to start with the paperwork?
Tell us where things stand. We’ll tell you the next step, even if that step isn’t hiring us.