Last Updated on January 23, 2024 by Lori Pace
Divorce is difficult not only financially but emotionally. Martindale Nolo found that divorce costs an average of $11,300 per spouse and that divorce lawyers cost an average of $270 per hour. This means that a couple could pay more than $22,000 to end their marriage. This is why so many people are turning to online services for their divorce. But how to find the best online divorce service for yourself?
They can save thousands of money. Online services are best when the divorce is not contested. This means that both spouses agree on all aspects of the divorce, including how to dissolve it. We evaluated the top online services on their capabilities, speed, cost, and overall quality.
What Is Online Divorce Service?
Online divorce services let you skip the need to hire separate lawyers and appear in court. The service will either:
- Complete and file all the papers online
- Complete the papers and give instructions on how to file them
- Guide you through the process of filling out the paperwork and then filing the forms.
All services offer support so that you can ask questions or get help when necessary. Additional legal advice may require you to pay extra fees. As someone who has navigated the complexities of divorce firsthand, I can attest to the advantages of online divorce services. They are indeed quick, cost-effective, and offer a simplified process for finalizing your divorce.
However, it’s essential to understand that the suitability of these services depends on the nature of your divorce. In cases where both spouses agree on key aspects, such as custody, child support, and property division, online services shine. But remember, divorce can be intricate, and it’s crucial to be aware of potential challenges and explore alternatives if your situation warrants it.
Online divorce websites will only allow you to use their services if your spouse and you are in agreement about your separation and you are willing to file an uncontested divorce. This is where you ask the court for permission to execute your agreement. You must agree on custody, child support, and property division.
If you and your spouse disagree on the terms of the divorce, most services will not be available to you.
Are Online Divorce Papers Legal?
Online divorce services can create divorce papers that comply with your state’s legal requirements. Some of them even offer guarantees that your state will accept the papers. Many sites state clearly that they do not offer legal services and only assist you in representing your interests.
Properly filed documents will legally bind you and result in your legal divorce. After you have received the papers, you can file them according to state rules. The finalization of the divorce may require you to appear in court, but this is dependent on your state.
When Should You Get an Attorney?
Online divorce services are easier if the divorce is not complicated. An online divorce is best for couples without children or assets. Spousal support is not an issue. These services can be used if your divorce is more complicated, but only if you both agree on the outcome and are open to working together.
An attorney is recommended if you and your spouse are unable to agree on how to resolve your divorce. If your divorce is complicated with many assets and debts or if you are uncertain about how to resolve it, an attorney may be a good option.
How Much Do Online Divorce Services Cost?
A divorce online can be uncontested and cost anywhere from a few hundred to several hundred dollars. This is a huge savings when compared to the average divorce cost.
The price does not include postage costs to mail your documents to the local court, notary fees, legal personal service (delivery to your spouse in the manner required by the court), or state filing fees. These additional costs vary from one state to the next. Expect to pay several hundred extra.
Some websites offer consultations with attorneys for an additional hourly fee.
6 Reviews of Best Online Divorce Service
Legal Zoom
LegalZoom is the industry’s leader in online divorce. They have a simplified site, an easy-to-navigate process, and provide support. They will complete your divorce forms for $499 and show you how to file them.
Pros
- 100% satisfaction guaranteed
- Your state court will accept your forms.
- Simple browsing and a clean website
Cons
- This is the most costly service.
- Some areas are too brief for explanations and description
I can vouch for their extensive experience as someone who has used LegalZoom for my divorce in providing online legal services since 1999. Over the years, they have honed a trustworthy and simplified process that has successfully withstood legal challenges. However, it’s worth noting that while online services like LegalZoom offer convenience, it’s essential to consult legal experts when your divorce involves complexities or disagreements, ensuring you make the right choices for your unique situation. They are ranked as the best online divorce site because of their years of experience, staff-reviewed documents, and intuitive platform.
How to Use The Legal Zoom Online Divorce Service
LegalZoom will create your divorce papers in the state-specific format you prefer and provide instructions on how to file them. The service is only available to uncontested divorces with both spouses signing the papers. After completing the questionnaire, your papers will be prepared. A staff member reviews the forms before they are sent to you. The process is quick and easy for most people who receive paperwork electronically. The documents can be printed from there with instructions for how to file them. They cannot be sent by post.
Contact information
If you have any questions, support staff is available via phone. LegalZoom gives you the ability to contact attorneys in your state to get specific help. You can purchase a plan that allows you to make 30-minute phone calls.
It is available in all 50 states. The interface is simple and clear, with easy navigation to help you find the forms. LegalZoom’s privacy policies are clear and detailed. LegalZoom also offers a vast library of articles on every aspect of divorce, which anyone can access for free. Their services are reliable and easy to use, which makes them our favorite.
3StepDivorce
If you need to quickly complete your divorce papers, this is the place to go. 3StepDivorce can provide documents within one hour. This allows you to move quickly when you are ready to end your divorce proceedings.
Pros
- You can pay $299 in monthly installments. There is a money-back guarantee.
- Upon completion, your documents will be available immediately
- Your state court will accept the forms.
Cons
- The staff or an attorney will not review your documents.
- If you have any questions, there are no attorneys.
- The website is not appealing
3StepDivorce, an online divorce service that has been around since 1997, is the oldest. The service’s quick turnaround time is impressive. Their process is quick and easy. You can have your divorce papers ready for download in under an hour. This makes them the best choice for speedy divorce filings.
How to Use The 3StepDivorce Online Service
As someone who has experienced both contested and uncontested divorces, I know that online divorce services are most effective when your divorce is amicable and uncontested. When both you and your spouse agree on key aspects, such as child custody, support, and property division, online services become a practical choice. The process typically involves answering a series of questions, after which the site will generate state-specific forms tailored to your circumstances.
However, it’s essential to remember that if your divorce is complex or involves disagreements, seeking professional legal advice is advisable. These forms are available immediately with instructions for how to file them. If you don’t have a printer or can wait, you can either print them or have them sent to you. 3StepDivorce guarantees your forms will be accepted by your state’s courts. You can pay the $299 fee on the site in installments, but this will result in a higher total cost. You’ll receive $50 back if you file within one calendar day.
This package contains a Divorce Encyclopedia ebook and other resources that can be downloaded. McAfee is used by 3StepDivorce to protect your data and detect vulnerabilities. 3StepDivorce is the best choice for quick divorce filings due to its ease of use and speed.
DivorceWriter
DivorceWriter can complete your divorce forms for $137. This is the best value for money.
Pros
- This service ensures that your forms are accepted by the state court
- Simple pricing structure
- Extremely low prices
Cons
- If you require legal help or have any questions, there are no lawyers to assist you.
- Customer service is not available via chat.
- Missouri does not offer this service.
This website allows you to quickly create documents for your divorce. It starts with a questionnaire. This service is not available to couples who have contested divorces. DivorceWriter’s integrity will be greatly appreciated. If your forms are rejected by the state court, they will refund you.
You can download your documents immediately or have them printed and sent to you for a small fee. The site has a few articles that will help you understand your rights and the divorce process. The site is not available for divorce in Missouri.
CompleteCase.com
CompleteCase.com provides solid service with enough details to make you feel safe but not overwhelmed. This is intuitively and cleanly designed. This makes it easy to file for divorce.
Pros
- For 30 days, you can make unlimited changes to your forms
- Your court will accept your forms
- Storage and completion of the last will and testament at no cost
Cons
- Two days are required for documents to be made available
- Customer support is not available via chat
I’ve found CompleteCase.com to be an excellent choice for uncontested divorces. Their straightforward process for preparing divorce papers, coupled with clear instructions tailored to your state’s requirements, ensures a smooth experience.
CompleteCase.com refrains from overwhelming users with unnecessary information, making it an optimal choice for those seeking simplicity in a challenging time. I personally endorse it as a top choice for straightforward divorce cases. However, it’s essential to remember that the suitability of any service depends on your unique circumstances.
How to Use The CompleteCase.com Online Divorce Service
Your forms will remain accessible for 30 days. This allows you to have a discussion with your spouse and make sure that you are both on the same page. You can also purchase an extended-time option, which gives you access to your forms for storage and changes at a monthly cost. Your documents will be accepted by the court.
You can also have your will prepared and stored on the secure server for no cost. CompleteCase.com was founded in 2000 and has a solid reputation. All forms on the site have been approved or written by attorneys. You can download documents or have them mailed to your home, depending on what you prefer.
You can reach unlimited support by email or phone if you have any questions. It is simple to use and the questionnaire process is intuitive.
Rocket Lawyer
I’ve personally used Rocket Lawyer’s services for my divorce, and I can confirm that they offer valuable support. With a monthly subscription of $39.99, you gain access to online assistance and the expertise of real attorneys who review your legal documents before submission. This hands-on approach can provide peace of mind during the divorce process.
However, remember that while Rocket Lawyer is an excellent choice for legal support, it may not be the optimal solution for every situation, especially in complex divorce cases.
Pros
- This affordable monthly plan gives you unlimited access to online assistance and forms.
- You can subscribe for 3 months or less, and the cost will be lower than any other service
- Prepare any family law or divorce document that you may need
- Site-affiliated attorneys can offer you a discount of up to 40%
Cons
It takes just a few clicks to find the divorce worksheet
Rocket Lawyer subscription model offers legal services from real lawyers for a monthly fee. Your monthly membership fee covers the creation of state-specific divorce forms. So, these forms are created and reviewed by lawyers. Site attorneys can be hired at a discount of up to 40% if you require more assistance. Rocket Lawyer is the best choice for legal assistance because of its direct access to lawyers, and ongoing discounts.
How to Use The Rocket Lawyer Online Divorce Service
You can start by filling out the Divorce Worksheet to organize your thoughts. Then you can start preparing your settlement agreement. You can also have a 30-minute phone conversation with an attorney and all documents are reviewed by an attorney before filing. You don’t have to feel isolated, especially if there are any legal questions.
Rocket Lawyer offers a free seven-day trial. So, you can cancel at any time. Besides, to protect your personal information, the site follows a strict privacy policy.
Rocket Lawyer can help you feel like you have a real lawyer reviewing your documents and answering your questions.
MyDivorcePapers.com
It can be difficult to divorce because each state has its own laws and forms. MyDivorcePapers.com provides concise and easy-to-understand explanations for the laws of each state. This makes it the best choice for the best explanations.
Pros
- The price is reasonable at $139
- Each case is assigned a dedicated case manager
- These instructions will show you how to serve your spouse.
- You have the option of choosing uncontested divorce, legal separation, or annulment.
Cons
- You cannot send the forms via mail.
- After you have completed the forms, the 100% guarantee is only valid for 30 days.
MyDivorcePapers.com was founded in 2002 and has grown to be one of the most popular online divorce services. This service does not limit itself to uncontested divorce, unlike many other online providers. If you don’t want to make the divorce final, you can choose legal separation or annulment. It provides clear, easy-to-understand descriptions of each state’s laws. This includes a guide to the terminology and forms. It is the best site for explaining.
How to Use The MyDivorcePapers.com Online Divorce Service
The service will complete your forms for $139. You can print them and then file them using the instructions. Your state court will accept the forms you have completed, provided you request a refund within 30 calendar days.
Each user is assigned a case manager who will answer any questions they may have. MyDivorcePapers.com provides support via email, phone, fax, support tickets, and support tickets. You will also find a number of helpful videos and tools on the site.
So, you can access the site’s privacy policy easily. And besides, you can also access the site via https and a valid SSL certificate.
