Pro se Divorce in Georgia: What to Know Before Filing Without a Lawyer

Understanding DIY Divorce

Pro se divorce is Latin for "for oneself" which means representing yourself in divorce proceedings without a lawyer. In Georgia, you can legally file for divorce without hiring an attorney. While this option appeals to many people looking to save money, it carries significant risks that could impact your future for years to come.

At Sharon Jackson, LLC, we understand the financial concerns that lead people to consider handling their own divorce. However, our years of experience have shown us the costly mistakes that often result from DIY divorce proceedings.

The Basic Process of Filing for Divorce in Georgia Without a Lawyer

If you're considering filing for divorce without an attorney in Georgia, the basic steps include:

1. Determine eligibility by confirming Georgia residency requirements
2. Gather necessary documents (marriage certificate, financial records, property information)
3. Complete and file a Petition for Divorce with your county's Superior Court
4. Pay the filing fee (typically $200-$250, varies by county)
5. Serve divorce papers to your spouse
6. Wait for your spouse's response
7. Attend mandatory mediation in most counties
8. Finalize agreements on property, debt, custody, and support
9. Attend the final hearing
10. Receive the final decree once signed by a judge

This process sounds straightforward in theory. In practice, it's filled with complexities that can lead to serious problems.

Why DIY Divorce Is Rarely a Good Idea

You Don't Know What You Don't Know

According to a study by the Institute for the Advancement of the American Legal System (IAALS), self-represented litigants frequently feel at a disadvantage, struggle to present their cases effectively, and face particularly pronounced difficulties in family law cases involving children. The most common problems include:

• Missing critical deadlines
• Incorrect completion of required forms
• Failure to disclose all assets and debts
• Inadequate child custody and support arrangements
• Poor negotiation of property division

The Statistics Show the Risks

Research reported by the ABA Journal reveals that self-represented litigants perceive bias and disadvantage in the court process. Many feel they're not taken as seriously as represented parties and struggle to navigate complex legal procedures. This is particularly true for complex matters involving children, property, or retirement accounts.

Long-Term Financial Consequences

These disadvantages can lead to significant financial problems down the road. Without proper legal guidance, many people end up with settlements that don't protect their long-term interests or accurately reflect their legal entitlements.

Common Pitfalls in Pro se Divorce Cases

Incomplete Financial Discovery

One of the biggest mistakes in DIY divorce is failing to fully uncover all marital assets. Without legal training, you might not know:

• How to identify hidden assets
• Which financial documents to request
• How to properly value complex assets like businesses, stock options, or retirement accounts

Poor Settlement Negotiations

Without legal guidance, many people accept unfair settlements. You might:

• Give up rights to property you're entitled to
• Accept less child support than Georgia guidelines suggest
• Agree to unfavorable custody terms without understanding long-term implications

Procedural Errors

Georgia divorce law includes specific requirements for filing documents, serving papers, and meeting deadlines. Missing any procedural step can result in:

• Case dismissals
• Default judgments
• Delayed proceedings
• Additional court costs

Sharon Jackson's Approach to Divorce Cases

Attorney Sharon Jackson brings over two decades of experience exclusively practicing family law in Georgia. As a skilled negotiator and trial attorney, she helps clients navigate the divorce process while protecting their rights and financial future.

Unlike a DIY divorce where you're on your own, Attorney Jackson provides:

• Thorough analysis of your specific situation
• Strategic planning for the best possible outcome
• Complete financial discovery to identify all marital assets
• Expert negotiation with opposing counsel
• Protection of your parental rights and financial interests
• Clear explanation of legal options in plain language

When Pro se Divorce Might Make Sense (And When It Doesn't)

Pro se divorce might be appropriate in very limited circumstances:

• Short marriages (less than 5 years)
• No children
• Minimal shared assets or debts
• Both parties in complete agreement
• Both parties with similar incomes
• No complex assets like businesses or retirement accounts

However, even in these "simple" cases, having an attorney review your agreement can prevent costly mistakes.

Pro se divorce is particularly risky when your case involves:

• Children and custody arrangements
• Significant assets or debts
• Retirement accounts or pensions
• Business ownership
• Real estate
• Significant income disparity between spouses
• History of domestic violence
• Disagreement on any major issues

Protect Your Future With Experienced Legal Representation

Divorce is more than just ending a marriage, it's restructuring your financial and family life. The decisions made during your divorce will impact you for years or even decades to come.

Attorney Sharon Jackson has helped hundreds of clients in Gwinnett County and throughout metro Atlanta navigate divorce while protecting their rights, assets, and relationship with their children.

Contact Attorney Sharon Jackson Today

Don't risk your financial future and family relationships with a DIY divorce. Schedule a consultation with Sharon Jackson to discuss your specific situation and learn how professional legal representation can actually save you money and stress in the long run.

Call our office at (678) 909-4100 or complete our online contact form to get started.