Question 1

What is a legal document preparation service?

Accepted Answer

A legal document preparation service helps individuals prepare legal forms and documents correctly and completely. We are not attorneys and do not provide legal advice — we prepare documents at the direction of our clients, following their instructions and ensuring forms are filled out accurately and in the format courts require.

Question 2

How is this different from hiring an attorney?

Accepted Answer

Attorneys provide legal advice, represent you in court, and can advocate on your behalf. Document preparers like us prepare the paperwork — we don't give legal advice or appear in court. The major advantage is cost: our services are a fraction of what an attorney would charge for the same documents. Whether your case is contested or uncontested and straightforward, Document Preparation may be all you need.

Question 3

Do I need an attorney if I use your services?

Accepted Answer

That depends on your situation. For uncontested matters where both parties agree on all issues, document preparation is often sufficient. If your case is contested, complex, or involves significant assets, child custody disputes, or domestic violence, we strongly recommend consulting with a licensed attorney. We're happy to discuss your situation and help you determine what level of help you need.

Question 4

Are your documents accepted by the courts?

Accepted Answer

Yes. We prepare documents using the official court forms required in your jurisdiction, filled out completely and correctly. Our documents are court-ready — meaning they are formatted and completed in the way courts expect to receive them.

Question 5

What is an uncontested divorce?

Accepted Answer

An uncontested divorce is one where both spouses agree on all major issues — including property division, debt allocation, spousal support, and (if applicable) child custody and support. Uncontested divorces are simpler, faster, and less expensive than contested divorces. Our services are best suited for uncontested matters.

Question 6

How long does the divorce process take?

Accepted Answer

The timeline varies by state and county. Most states have a mandatory waiting period (often 6 months) from the date of service before a divorce can be finalized. The document preparation portion of the process can typically be completed quickly — often within a few days of receiving your information.

Question 7

What's the difference between divorce and legal separation?

Accepted Answer

A divorce legally ends your marriage. A legal separation allows you to live apart and divide assets and responsibilities without terminating the marriage. Some people choose legal separation for religious reasons, to maintain health insurance benefits, or while deciding whether to permanently divorce. We prepare documents for both.

Question 8

Do both spouses need to participate?

Accepted Answer

For an uncontested divorce, ideally both spouses cooperate and provide information. However, it is possible to proceed with a divorce even if one spouse does not participate — this is called a default divorce. We can prepare the necessary documents for either scenario.

Question 9

What documents do I need for a custody agreement?

Accepted Answer

A custody agreement typically includes a parenting plan outlining legal and physical custody, a visitation schedule, a holiday and vacation schedule, and (if applicable) a child support calculation worksheet. We prepare all of these documents in the format your court requires.

Question 10

Can you help modify an existing custody order?

Accepted Answer

Yes. If circumstances have changed and you need to modify an existing custody or support order, we can prepare the necessary modification documents. Courts generally require a showing of a significant change in circumstances to modify an existing order.

Question 11

How is child support calculated?

Accepted Answer

Child support is calculated using state-specific guidelines that take into account each parent's income, the amount of time each parent spends with the child, and other factors. We prepare the required income and expense declarations and child support calculation worksheets.

Question 12

How do I get started?

Accepted Answer

The easiest way to get started is to contact us for a free phone consultation. We'll discuss your situation and walk you through the process. You can reach us by phone or through our contact form.

Question 13

What information do I need to provide?

Accepted Answer

The information needed varies by document type. For a divorce, you'll typically need basic information about both spouses (names, addresses, dates), marriage information (date and place of marriage), information about any children, and details about property, debts, and any agreements you've reached. We'll give you a complete list when you contact us.

Question 14

How much do your services cost?

Accepted Answer

Our fees vary depending on the type and complexity of the documents needed. We are significantly less expensive than hiring an attorney for the same documents. Contact us for a free consultation and we'll provide you with a clear, upfront quote.

Question 15

Do you offer online services?

Accepted Answer

Yes! We offer online document preparation services so you can work with us from anywhere. Contact us to learn more about how our online process works.

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