How to Divorce Without a Lawyer in Honolulu, HI (Complete Step-by-Step Guide)

Divorcing without a lawyer in Honolulu is entirely possible — and for many Hawaiʻi couples, it’s the simplest and most affordable way to end a marriage. Hawaii law allows individuals to file for divorce without an attorney (“pro se” divorce), and the First Circuit Family Court in Honolulu provides clear procedures for completing an uncontested divorce.

This guide walks you through exactly how to divorce without a lawyer in Honolulu, including required forms, timelines, filing fees, local rules, and when you may still want legal support.

Can You Really Divorce Without a Lawyer in Honolulu, HI?

Yes. Many couples in Honolulu complete their divorce without hiring an attorney, especially if their case is uncontested.

A DIY divorce works best when:

• You and your spouse agree on property, custody, and support

• You want to avoid attorney fees of $10,000+

• You feel comfortable filling out structured forms

• Your financial and parenting arrangements are straightforward

• You prefer a simple, guided process through Hawaii’s system

If a dispute develops at any point, you can still consult a lawyer — but most cooperative couples complete the process without one.

How Divorce Works in Hawaii (Unique Local Rules)

Hawaii uses a hybrid divorce system that allows:

1. Uncontested Divorce by Agreement (Most Common Without a Lawyer)

Both spouses sign all required documents, including a full settlement agreement.

2. Uncontested Divorce by Default

One spouse files alone and the other does not contest the divorce.

3. Contested Divorce

Not ideal for DIY, but available if spouses cannot agree.

There is no mandatory waiting period, meaning your divorce can move quickly once your paperwork is complete.

How to Divorce Without a Lawyer in Honolulu — Step by Step

1. Meet Hawaii’s Residency Requirement

To file for divorce in Honolulu, either spouse must have:

• Lived in Hawaiʻi for at least six months, and

• Lived specifically in Honolulu County for at least three months

Once you meet these requirements, you may file at the First Circuit Family Court.

2. Gather Required Hawaii Divorce Forms

Forms vary depending on whether you are filing:

• A Complaint for Divorce (one spouse files alone), or

• A Joint Petition (both spouses file together)

Common Honolulu Divorce Forms

• Matrimonial Action Information Sheet (MAIS)

• Complaint for Divorce or Joint Petition

• Summons

• Income and Expense Statement

• Asset and Debt Statement

• Parenting Plan (if children)

• Child Support Guidelines Worksheet

• Divorce Decree (Final Judgment)

• Affidavit of Plaintiff or Affidavit of Defendant

Honolulu (First Circuit) Local Requirements

You may also need:

• Certified marriage certificate

• Notarized signatures

• Hearing request forms

• Proposed Orders

Divorce.com prepares all required Hawaii + Honolulu-specific forms automatically.

3. File Your Documents With the First Circuit Family Court

First Circuit Family Court (Honolulu)
777 Punchbowl St.
Honolulu, HI 96813

Filing Fee

• Approximately $215 for a divorce case

• Additional costs for notarization, service of process, and certified copies

Filing can be done:

• In person

• By mail

• Electronically (via JEFS, if you have an approved e-filing account)

4. Serve Your Spouse (Unless Filing Jointly)

If you’re filing a Joint Petition, no service is required.

If filing a Complaint:

Acceptable service methods include:

• Sheriff or process server

• Certified mail

• Personal service by a third-party adult

• Waiver of Service (if spouse signs voluntarily)

After service, file the Proof of Service with the court.

5. Complete Mandatory Financial Disclosures

Hawaii requires both spouses to exchange:

• Income information

• Bank statements

• Tax documents

• Lists of assets and debts

• Child-related financial documentation (if applicable)

These statements support your settlement agreement and ensure fairness.

6. Draft Your Marital Settlement Agreement

Your agreement should cover:

• Property and debt division

• Custody and visitation arrangements

• Child support

• Spousal support

• Health insurance responsibilities

• Tax and expense responsibilities

Hawaiʻi courts strongly favor settlement agreements in uncontested filings.

Divorce.com helps you create a complete and court-ready agreement.

7. Submit Your Divorce Decree for Judge Review

If both spouses agree and your paperwork is complete, the judge may finalize your divorce without a hearing.

However, a hearing may be required if:

• There are children involved

• The judge wants clarification

• A spouse filed a Complaint and the other did not respond

At the hearing, you will confirm:

• Residency

• That the marriage is irretrievably broken

• That your agreement is voluntary and fair

Once approved, the judge signs your Divorce Decree.

How Long Does an Uncontested Divorce Take in Honolulu?

Typical timelines:

• 2–4 months for most uncontested cases

• Faster if using a Joint Petition

• Slightly longer if a hearing is required

Honolulu’s Family Court processing times are generally efficient when paperwork is correct.

How Much Does It Cost to Divorce Without a Lawyer in Honolulu?

Most couples spend:

• $215 filing fee

• $0–$100 for service of process

• $0 if you prepare forms yourself

• $499–$1999 using Divorce.com to prepare all Hawaii + Honolulu forms

Hiring a lawyer in Hawaii often costs $10,000–$20,000+, making DIY divorce the most cost-effective choice for uncontested cases.

When You Should Still Consider Hiring a Lawyer

You may need legal support if:

• Domestic violence or safety issues exist

• A spouse hides money or assets

• You own complicated property (business, real estate, retirement accounts)

• Custody or visitation disputes occur

• A spouse refuses to cooperate

For cooperative couples, a DIY divorce in Honolulu is straightforward and affordable.

Why Couples in Honolulu Choose Divorce.com

Divorce.com helps Hawaiʻi residents:

• Prepare all required Honolulu + statewide forms

• Build a complete settlement agreement

• Avoid common mistakes that delay cases

• Understand Hawaiʻi’s unique divorce rules

• Access optional attorney support if needed

It’s the fastest and most affordable way to complete a no-lawyer divorce in Honolulu.

Final Thoughts

Divorcing without a lawyer in Honolulu is completely achievable when you understand Hawaii’s process and have the correct forms. With clear guidance, a solid settlement agreement, and accurate documentation, you can finalize your divorce confidently and cost-effectively.

Divorce.com provides everything you need to file and complete your Honolulu divorce from start to finish.