DIY Divorce in Virginia – Simple Steps to Do It Yourself

Thinking about ending your marriage but don’t want to spend a fortune on lawyers? In Virginia you can file for divorce on your own and keep costs low. This guide walks you through what you need, how to fill out the paperwork, and where to file, so you can move forward without getting stuck.

When Can You File on Your Own?

Virginia allows anyone who meets the residency rule (six weeks in the state or three months in the county) to file a “no‑fault” divorce. You don’t need to prove wrongdoing; stating “the marriage is irretrievably broken” is enough. If both parties agree on kids, money, and property, you can use the “joint” form, which is the quickest route.

Step‑by‑Step Checklist

1. Gather Documents – Get your marriage certificate, any prior agreements, and a list of assets and debts. If you have kids, collect birth certificates and school records.

2. Choose the Right Form – Download the “Divorce Complaint” (Form VA‑500) from the Virginia Courts website. For a joint filing, use the “Joint Complaint for Divorce” (Form VA‑501).

3. Fill It Out – Write down basic info: names, address, marriage date, and why you’re filing. Keep it short—no need for a novel.

4. File the Paperwork – Take the completed forms to the circuit court in the county where you or your spouse lives. Pay the filing fee (around $150‑$200, but you can ask for a waiver if you can’t afford it).

5. Serve Your Spouse – If you’re filing solo, the court needs proof that your spouse got the papers. You can use certified mail, a process server, or the sheriff’s office.

6. Wait for the Response – Your spouse has 21 days to answer. If they don’t, you can request a default judgment.

7. Finalize the Divorce – If both sides agree, the judge signs a final decree after a short hearing. If there’s disagreement, you’ll go through mediation or a trial, which can add time and cost.

Always double‑check the local rules for the county you’re filing in—some courts have their own forms or extra steps. And while you can handle the paperwork yourself, a short consultation with a family‑law attorney can save you headaches later, especially when it comes to child custody or property splits.

Common Mistakes to Avoid – Skipping the residency check, forgetting to list every asset, and not serving your spouse correctly are the top reasons DIY filings get rejected. Also, don’t assume a joint filing means you can ignore child‑support calculations; the court still reviews those numbers.

Need extra help? Virginia’s Legal Aid Society offers free or low‑cost advice for qualifying individuals. Many courts also provide self‑help kiosks and printable worksheets. If you’re unsure about any step, a 15‑minute phone call with a legal aid volunteer can clarify things before you file.

DIY divorce isn’t for everyone, but for many Virginia couples it’s a realistic, affordable option. Follow this checklist, stay organized, and you’ll get through the process faster than you think.