Some people want to save money and avoid entanglements that might prolong getting a quick divorce.  This is understandable.  But, unless you have the simplest of divorces (i.e., a short-term marriage, no kids, no property, no debts), a do-it-yourself divorce with or without a paralegal can end up costing you later.

Divorce agreements are like any other contract.  If you make poor choices, if you take less child support or alimony than you need, if you give up a pension or other property rights, or make an agreement  that you don’t really want to be bound to, the judge can’t and won’t come to your rescue in the future.  You will need a lawyer, and if he or she can undo what has been done, it will cost a lot more than if you had gone to a lawyer to begin with.

There are certain court procedures that must be followed in particular situations or you may forego some rights forever.  If you have questions regarding tax consequences, property rights, child issues, alimony awards, etc., you should contact a knowledgeable attorney to review your case and assist you in deciding what is in your best interest.   Decisions about alimony, tax consequences, children, support, time-sharing, the division of pensions and retirement plans, military retirement benefits and the division of real and personal property are big ones.  Saving a few hundred dollars now may cost you thousands of dollars later.

Even if your case seems uncomplicated, spending the money on an attorney to make sure you don’t shoot yourself in the foot is worth the peace of mind.