How to Make Divorce Simpler, Smarter, and Less Expensive

There’s no easy way to separate—but there is a better way forward.

Divorce doesn’t have to be a confusing, expensive legal brawl. For millions of people, especially those who are willing to cooperate or already agree on major issues, there’s a path through this process that’s clearer, calmer, and far more cost-effective.

The key is understanding your options early—and choosing the one that actually fits your situation.

In this guide, we break down the four most important steps to take if you're thinking about divorce. From choosing the right approach to understanding where you’ll need support, this is your roadmap to a more thoughtful separation.

Step 1: Understand the Basics Before You File

Every state has different requirements, and skipping this step is one of the most common (and costly) mistakes.

Start by confirming you meet your state’s residency rules. Most states require you to have lived there for at least six months before you can file for divorce. If you file too early, your paperwork could be rejected—and you’ll have to start over.

Next, determine whether you qualify for a no-fault divorce. This is the fastest, least expensive route in most states. It allows you to file based on irreconcilable differences instead of having to prove wrongdoing.

Finally, take an honest look at how aligned you and your spouse are. If you agree on all the key terms—custody, asset division, debt, and support—you may be eligible for an uncontested divorce, which skips court hearings entirely and makes the process dramatically smoother.

Step 2: Choose the Right Divorce Path for Your Situation

There’s no one-size-fits-all approach. The best method depends on your level of conflict, complexity, and comfort navigating legal forms.

DIY (Do-It-Yourself) Divorce

Going directly through your state’s court system is the most hands-on—and potentially the most difficult—option. You’ll need to complete and file all paperwork yourself, often coordinating closely with your spouse throughout. Many states have hyper-specific requirements, and one wrong answer can set you back weeks or even months.

This route is typically best for couples who are highly organized, have a simple financial situation, and can work collaboratively in-person or on paper.

But be warned: Most couples underestimate the complexity. Local rules, inconsistent clerical support, and a lack of transparency can make the DIY route surprisingly stressful.

Online Divorce Platforms

The rise of digital tools has made online divorce more accessible—but not all platforms are created equal. Many advertise low prices but hide fees, lack U.S.-based support, or fail to deliver valid court-approved documents. Worse, some don’t disclose that they’re not actually based in the U.S. at all.

If you choose to go this route, do your homework. Look for platforms with transparent pricing, accessible support teams, and clear documentation of court acceptance rates.

At Divorce.com, we saw these industry gaps firsthand. That’s why our founder, Liz Pharo, created a different kind of platform after navigating her own divorce. Born in Birmingham, Alabama, Divorce.com offers three core products designed to meet you where you are:

• Paperwork Only ($499): For couples who already have an agreement in place and just need help generating and editing the required documents.
  
  

• We File For You ($999): Ideal for couples who don’t want to navigate filing logistics. We handle form submission, court filing, and serving your spouse.
  
  

• Fully Guided Divorce ($1999): A complete solution with a dedicated Case Manager, up to four mediation sessions, and support through every phase—from start to court-ready paperwork.
  
  

Each of these was built with transparency, control, and emotional clarity in mind.

Attorney-Led Divorce

If you and your spouse are deeply at odds, have complex assets or custody concerns, or suspect dishonesty or manipulation is at play, hiring an attorney may be the best path. They’re trained to manage legal complexity and protect your interests in adversarial situations.

But they’re not a perfect fit for everyone.

Attorney-led divorces are often more expensive ($10K–$20K+ per spouse), slower, and emotionally draining. Research published in the Journal of Divorce & Remarriage shows that clients in adversarial legal proceedings report significantly higher stress levels and mental health challenges than those in collaborative or mediated divorces.

Step 3: Pick a Support Model That Matches Your Needs

Whether you’re considering a DIY kit, an online platform, Divorce.com’s guided services, or hiring a traditional attorney, the most important decision isn’t which tool to use—it’s how well it matches your specific situation.

No two divorces are the same. Your choice should reflect your circumstances, communication dynamics, and financial realities.

Ask yourself:

• How well can you and your spouse communicate? If you’re on speaking terms and generally agree on the outcome, a lower-conflict option like Divorce.com or mediation may work well. If there’s deep conflict or safety concerns, legal representation might be more appropriate.
  
  

• How complex is your financial life? Simple asset splits and no children? You might benefit from a streamlined online platform. Shared property, debts, or custody arrangements? You’ll need a more guided process—one that doesn’t automatically escalate to litigation.
  
  

• What’s your bandwidth for paperwork and court procedures? Some people prefer to handle every step themselves. Others want support to avoid surprises, errors, and emotional setbacks. Divorce.com offers multiple tiers—from DIY to Fully Guided—so you can choose the level of help that makes sense for you.
  
  

• What’s your budget—and your tolerance for risk? Attorney-led divorces can cost tens of thousands of dollars, often without guaranteeing better outcomes. Divorce.com offers flat-rate pricing and legal-grade tools that protect your interests without breaking the bank.
  
  

This isn’t about “cheapest” or “fastest.” It’s about finding the healthiest, most realistic path based on your life right now. You don’t need to commit to the most expensive option out of fear—and you don’t need to do it all alone either. You deserve a solution that respects your situation and adapts to your needs.

Step 4: Get Help From a Real Human (If You Want It)

Whether you file on your own, use an online tool, or hire an attorney, the experience is shaped by how much support you have.

DIY: You’re fully on your own—submitting documents, coordinating signatures, managing court timelines, and hoping you did it right.

Online Platforms: Some offer support, but many rely on bots or overseas reps. Divorce.com assigns you a Case Manager who helps you every step of the way, from your initial questionnaire to final court documentation.

Fully Guided with Mediation: If you choose Divorce.com’s Fully Guided package, your certified mediator helps both spouses navigate issues like custody and asset division collaboratively. Our goal is to minimize conflict and maximize momentum—so you can move forward without unnecessary trauma.

Attorney: Lawyers work within the court system, handling filings, motions, and hearings. But they aren’t equipped to help with the emotional or practical transitions that come with divorce. In fact, many attorneys advise against outside therapy or mediation, preferring control over the process—sometimes at the cost of clarity or cooperation.

Final Thoughts: Divorce Doesn’t Have to Break You

It’s a hard moment. But it doesn’t have to be harder than it already is.

With the right information and a trusted partner, you can separate on your terms—with less cost, less conflict, and more control over your future.

Whether that’s with a form generator, a full-service guide, or a legal advocate, what matters most is that the path forward matches what you—and your life—really need.

→ Explore your options at Divorce.com. We’re here to support the divorce you actually want.

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