How to File Your Own Divorce

by Haman, Edward A.

• ISBN13: 9781572481329
• ISBN10: 1572481323
• Format: Paperback
• Copyright: 2000-12-01
• Publisher: Sourcebooks Inc

Summary

This easy-to-use book explains the steps in the divorce process and includes the forms necessary to handle a divorce without an attorney. It helps readers understand the legal system and how to get through a divorce with the fewest hassles.

Table of Contents

Using Self-Help Law Books	vii
Introduction	xi
Marriage ``Ins and Outs''	1	(16)
Marriage
Divorce
Annulment
Legal Separation
Do You Really Want a Divorce?
The Legal System	17	(10)
Theory vs. Reality
Divorce Law and Procedure
Legal Research
Lawyers	27	(10)
Do You Want a Lawyer?
Selecting a Lawyer
Working with a Lawyer'
Types of Divorce Procedures	37	(4)
No-Fault or Traditional Divorce
Consent Divorce
Uncontested Divorce
Contested Divorce
Evaluating Your Situation	41	(14)
Your Spouse
Gathering Information
Property and Debts
Alimony
Child Support
Child Custody and Visitation
Tax Considerations
Filing for Divorce	55	(26)
Legal Forms
The Complaint or Petition
Supporting Documents
Marital Settlement Agreement
Negotiating
Filing with the Clerk
Collecting Information About Your Spouse
Emergency Procedures	81	(6)
Protecting Yourself
Protecting Your Children
Protecting Your Property
Temporary Alimony, Child Support, and Custody
Notifying Your Spouse	87	(8)
Notice of Filing the Complaint
Other Notices
When You Can't Find Your Spouse
How Your Spouse Responds
Answering A Complaint for Divorce	95	(4)
Contested Divorce	99	(10)
Procedure Differences from Uncontested Divorce
Property and Debts
Alimony
Child Support
Child Custody and Visitation
The Court Hearing	109	(14)
Preparation
Witnesses
Courtroom Manners
Your Hearing Presentation
The Judgment or Decree
The Future
Appendix A: State Law Information	123	(54)
Appendix B: Forms	177	(28)
Appendix C: Sample Case with Completed Forms	205	(26)
Appendix D: Glossary of Terms	231	(4)
Index	235