Atkinson & Kelsey Law Firm Blog

Pitfalls and complications with do-it-yourself divorces

When it comes to taking care of expensive or complicated matters, individuals and married couples in New Mexico often like to take matters in their own hands in order to save money. The do-it-yourself mentality is often applied to projects that they believe they can carry out on their own, but when it comes to a divorce, it is challenging to deal with all the necessary details and steps. This is especially true when children are involved in the divorce. When establishing a child custody arrangement, it is important the best interests of the child are paramount.

There is essentially a market for a do-it-yourself kit for almost everything. Just like an individual can get a program to help them complete their own taxes, divorcing couples can obtain a program that can establish an equitable divorce. The problem with such programs is that they cannot address all issues thoroughly and accurately.

Even if such a program could assist the couple in some divorce disputes, there is no strategy that could be applied to determine the best interests of a child and what parent gets primary custody. In these matters, it is important that parents go through the proper channels to obtain a child custody agreement or seek guidance from appropriate professionals if they are not able to agree on an arrangement.

Dissolution often includes numerous disputes and issues, but it is important for divorcing parents to address the crucial issues surrounding their children. If they are not able to come to terms and reach an agreement, it is important that they seek assistance to help them establish an appropriate child custody plan.

Source: Liberty Voice, “The Flaw in Do-It-Yourself Kits,” Alan Milner, April 8, 2014