An individual has the right to represent him or herself at court in all cases, including those pertaining to divorce in the state of Virginia. However, while this may appear to be a less expensive option, it is something that you need to give careful consideration to before going down that route.

It’s fine representing yourself when both parties have already amicably agreed to everything to do with money, children and property. You know there aren’t going to be some difficult questions to answer. However, if the divorce isn’t amicable, or you haven’t been able to settle all the issues, then representing yourself is likely to be an expensive mistake and create high levels of stress during the court case. If a divorce is not entirely amicable representing yourself is likely to get difficult; it is a task that needs to be addressed by a professional.

From a financial aspect, representing yourself is far less expensive; it is not being contested in any way it can probably be completed for well under $150 dollars and this includes the court fees of around $80.

There are of course many law firms in the state of Virginia who advertise an uncontested divorce for less than $500 dollars, including court fees. If you are willing and able to pay the extra, it will ensure that your interests are looked after. It can also mean the divorce will happen quicker, because the law firm is familiar with the necessary paperwork and will ensure its correct before being presented to the court.

Virginia divorce law states that once you have filed for divorce, your spouse has a period of twenty one days to respond. This time limit applies if your spouse lives in the state of Virginia, but increases sixty days, if your spouse resides outside the state of Virginia. This further increases if the spouse resides outside the U.S.

A divorce will automatically be granted if after the specified time period your spouse does not respond and all the papers have been completed and presented to the court correctly. You may need to make a brief court appearance, although this can be waived in certain circumstances. Note that it may be necessary to get a witness to attend court to corroborate some of the facts.

Taking a couple of examples where corroboration of facts may be necessary; you will need to provide proof to the court that you have resided in Virginia for a period of at least six months. You will also need to proof to the court that you and your spouse have lived separately for six months, if minor children aren’t involved and 12 months if minor children are involved.

So long as you are able to meet the necessary requirements and the divorce is uncontested, then the laws relating to divorce in Virginia are fairly simple and can be dealt with in a quick and inexpensive manner.

Check out local law firm websites and you will be surprised how quick, simple and inexpensive a divorce can be in Virginia.

by Elizabeth Allen – Visit www.EphraimLaw.com for uncontested divorce in Virginia. Click this link to visit Ephraim Law.

by Elizabeth Allen – Visit http://www.EphraimLaw.com for uncontested divorce in Virginia.

Author Bio: by Elizabeth Allen – Visit www.EphraimLaw.com for uncontested divorce in Virginia. Click this link to visit Ephraim Law.

Category: Legal
Keywords: law divorce