DIY Divorce Isn’t Always as “Simple” as It Sounds
When a spouse or partner says, “We don’t need lawyers—we’re keeping it friendly,” it can feel like the mature, low-conflict option. Maybe you agree on the big stuff. Maybe you just want it over. And maybe… you’re being set up to lose a lot more than you think.
Even in an uncontested divorce, skipping legal help is one of the biggest mistakes people regret later—especially in Georgia.
The Problem With “Let’s Just Agree”
The phrase “let’s keep it simple” often means “let’s keep it in their favor.” Without an attorney, here’s what can go wrong:
- Unequal divisions of assets – You might think you’re splitting things fairly, but Georgia law doesn’t require a 50/50 division—it requires an equitable one. There’s a difference.
- Hidden financial liabilities – If their name is still on the mortgage or car note (or yours is), one missed payment could destroy your credit… and you’d still be legally responsible.
- No built-in safety nets – What if someone loses their job? Moves away? Remarries? DIY agreements rarely include the legal language to handle what comes next.
A Real Example: The Car That Wasn’t Yours… Yet
You both agree: you’ll keep the car, and you’ll make the payments. So you shake hands, move on, and never update the title or loan. Six months later, they default—and now your credit score tanks. Why? Because legally, it was still their car, even if you were emotionally “done.”
This kind of legal gray area happens all the time in DIY divorces. A lawyer’s job is to eliminate those landmines before they blow up.
Friendly Now Doesn’t Mean Friendly Later
Right now, things feel calm. You’re both cooperative. But that doesn’t guarantee it’ll stay that way. Even in the most “amicable” separations, people can:
- Change their minds
- Remarry someone with strong opinions
- Have financial crises that shift everything
When your agreement isn’t written, reviewed, and filed properly, it’s much harder to enforce later. And if it goes to court? You’ll be starting from scratch—and footing a much larger legal bill.
What a Lawyer Actually Does in an Uncontested Divorce
Hiring a lawyer doesn’t mean turning your divorce into a battle. In fact, it usually means:
- You never have to go to court
- You get everything filed and finalized faster
- You know exactly what you’re getting—and what you’re giving up
In Georgia, uncontested divorce doesn’t mean “no lawyer.” It means both parties agree—but they still protect themselves legally.
Bottom Line: Keep It Civil, But Keep It Smart
You deserve peace and simplicity—but not at the cost of your future. An uncontested divorce can still be efficient, kind, and drama-free with an attorney involved.
And let’s be honest—if it really is that simple, why not have a lawyer double-check everything and make sure you’re covered?
Let’s Keep It Simple—and Smart.
Catherine Verdery Ryan helps clients all over Georgia protect themselves in uncontested divorces, custody modifications, and support agreements. You can keep things calm and cover your legal bases.
Serving: Augusta, Martinez, Evans, Richmond, Columbia, Burke & McDuffie Counties
📞 Call: (706) 722-2663
🌐 CatherineRyanLawyer.com