5 Things You Can Do Yourself to Save Money During a Divorce

Can you manage some aspects of your divorce without spending a fortune on lawyers? This episode is packed with actionable tips that could save you heaps of money. So grab a cup of tea, settle in, and let's get started. Click below to listen 

Remember to Consult a Lawyer

It's essential to see a lawyer to understand your legal standing and before you sign or agree to anything. This ensures that your rights are protected and you’re making informed decisions. However, doing some of the groundwork yourself can significantly reduce the amount of legal fees you incur.

Listen to this episode if you are thinking about doing some of the work yourself. 

1. Write Your Own Letters

One of the first steps in a divorce is communication. Whether it’s informing your ex about the split or starting discussions you don’t necessarily need a lawyer to draft these initial letters. You know your situation best and can tailor your messages appropriately. Just keep it straightforward and business-like, and if it's safe, give it a go.

2. Figure Out Your Property Pool

Understanding your property pool is crucial. This includes all assets and debts both you and your ex own. You can start by listing everything: houses, cars, bank accounts, investments, and even valuable items like guitars or jewellery. Estimate their values as best as you can. If you can agree on these values with your ex without lawyers negotiations, you can save a lot on legal fees. (just make sure they check your agreement once it is done or before you agree to anything).

3. Handle Your Own Disclosure Paperwork

Disclosure involves providing all relevant financial documents to your ex and vice versa. This can be a tedious process, but doing it yourself can save you significant amounts. Gather bank statements, pay slips, superannuation details, and any other relevant documents. Completing this in one go rather than piecemeal can reduce legal costs and avoid back-and-forth delays.

4. Attend Mediation Without a Lawyer

Yes, you can attend mediation without a lawyer. Many people do it successfully. Mediation is about negotiation and finding common ground, and you can always consult your lawyer for specific advice as needed during the process. Plus, many mediations are now conducted via Zoom, so it's more convenient and less intimidating than you might think. Make sure you see a lawyer to find out where you stand before you attend mediation and ask if you can call them if you get stuck on the day. 

5. Create Your Own Parenting Plan

If you have children, creating a parenting plan is essential. You and your ex can agree on the details and write them down. This doesn’t need to be in legal language; it just needs to be clear and agreed upon by both parties. While it's not legally enforceable, it sets a solid framework and shows the court (if needed) that you’re committed to cooperative parenting. 

Why People Hesitate

Many people feel overwhelmed by the legal system and doubt their ability to handle these tasks. However, remember that lawyers and judges are just regular people with training. With some effort and research, you can manage many aspects of your divorce. Don’t let fear or self-doubt hold you back.

In Conclusion

Divorce is tough, but you have the power to take control and save money. Write some of your own letters, have a go at figuring out your property pool, handle your own disclosure paperwork, attend mediation, and create your parenting plan. These steps can make a big difference financially and emotionally saving the money for lawyer fees for when you really need it.

For more detailed guidance, check out our full podcast episode and consider joining our course, which walks you through each step in detail. If you found this post helpful, please share it and subscribe to our podcast for more tips and support.

Stay strong, and remember, you’ve got this!

Episodes Mentioned

Can you really mediate with a narcissist?

Creating your own parenting orders or parenting plans with the 12 agreements

DIY Divorce Disclosure and Discovery, for property settlement & child support

Useful Resources:

Click here for our free before you leave checklist 

Click here for our free mediation checklist

Sign up here for our next free online webinar

Emergency Contacts:

• WOMEN'S SHELTER SERVICE 
• LEGAL AID
• Lifeline 13 11 14
• Mensline Australia 1300 789 978
• Kids Help Line 1800 551 800
• Aboriginal Family Domestic Violence Hotline 1800 019 123
• Relationships Australia 
• Police on 000
• DVConnect Womensline on 1800 811 811 (24 hours, 7 days a week) Note: This number is not recorded on your phone bill
• DV Connect Mensline on 1800 600 636
• National DV line on 1800 737 732.1800RESPECT 1800 737 732

Don't forget to hit SUBSCRIBE so you don't miss out on our upcoming practical steps and guidance for your divorce or de facto separation. If you found this episode helpful, please leave a rating and a review to help others. Thank you.

Please note that this podcast provides general education only and is not legal advice. Always seek independent legal advice, as every situation is different.