subject: Why You Need a Professional Attorney to Prepare Florida Divorce Papers [print this page] Why You Need a Professional Attorney to Prepare Florida Divorce Papers
Unfortunately, many people who file for divorce in Florida do so without being represented by a lawyer. The average person just can't afford an attorney. Most attorneys bill by the hour, and by the time they're done handling the case, the client could end up owing several thousands of dollars.
With that in mind, it should come as no surprise that a growing number of people are going online to buy Florida divorce papers and to get assistance from non-lawyers to prepare the paperwork and file for divorce. It's far cheaper than hiring a "billable hour" attorney.
But there is a downside to taking this route. The simple truth is that most websites offering document preparation for Florida divorce papers aren't backed by real attorneys. The people offering these services are typically called "divorce paralegals." They aren't real lawyers. They're simply legal assistants.
These "divorce paralegals" tell clients that filing for divorce is going to be fast and easy. That's usually not the case.
It all begins with the filing of the Florida divorce papers. Since "divorce paralegals" aren't experienced lawyers and aren't always even located in Florida, they often end up making errors on the paperwork or not filing all required papers. In Florida, the clerk needs you to file a civil cover sheet, related cases statement, petition for dissolution of marriage, and other documents depending on local laws. These rules may vary by county or city, and "divorce paralegals" typically aren't familiar with them.
As a result, the clerk can reject the case because the paperwork was filed improperly. Talk about a headache!
But even if the case does get filed, you're not done. To get the court moving, you have to be proactive in filing papers, setting hearings, and so on. It's a very involved process, and it's too much of a hassle to handle if you're only being represented by "divorce paralegals."
Now, you might be saying to yourself, "I just can't afford to hire an attorney. What other options do I have?"
Before you assume you can't afford an attorney, you should know that not all of them bill by the hour. There are some lawyers who offer flat fee services for divorce cases.
They're able to offer low flat fees because they take advantage of a part of the law known as "discreet task representation." With client consent, this allows the lawyer to make limited appearances in court, helping streamline the case and bring down your costs. These flat rate attorney fees can be found for as little as $399 to $499 online.
When you use these flat fee services, first make sure that they're truly backed by a lawyer or law firm. Then, make certain that they'll help with preparing and filing Florida divorce papers and representing you in court as needed.
Remember, document preparation services are almost never a good idea, and "divorce paralegals" don't offer legitimate representation. Find a real attorney to help with preparing and filing your Florida divorce papers.
