GA

How to File for Divorce in Georgia Without a Lawyer

Complete step-by-step guide to filing for divorce in Georgia without an attorney. Save thousands in legal fees.

Overview: Filing for Divorce in Georgia Without a Lawyer

Georgia requires 6 months residency with a 30-day waiting period (45 if contested). The state uses equitable distribution and offers both fault and no-fault grounds. Uncontested divorces are straightforward for DIY filing.

Can You File Without a Lawyer in Georgia?

✓ Good Candidates for DIY Divorce:

  • Both agree on divorce
  • Agreement on property and debt division
  • No contested custody or support
  • Limited assets
  • Both willing to cooperate

⚠ Consider Hiring a Lawyer If:

  • Child custody disputes
  • Complex property
  • Business interests
  • Contested fault grounds
  • Spouse has attorney

Find Georgia Divorce Lawyers →

Step-by-Step: How to File for Divorce in Georgia

Step 1

Verify Residency

One spouse must have lived in Georgia for 6 months.

⏱ Estimated Time: N/A
💡 Tips:
  • GA driver's license
  • Voter registration
Step 2

Complete Petition

File Petition for Divorce with circuit court.

⏱ Estimated Time: 2-3 hours
💡 Tips:
  • Use GA court forms
  • Filing fee: $200-250
Step 3

Serve Spouse

Have spouse served by sheriff or process server.

⏱ Estimated Time: 1-2 weeks
💡 Tips:
  • Sheriff service $25-50
  • Spouse can waive service
Step 4

File Answer and Waiver

Spouse files answer agreeing to terms.

⏱ Estimated Time: 1 week
💡 Tips:
  • Uncontested if spouse agrees
Step 5

Wait 30 Days

Georgia requires 30-day waiting period minimum.

⏱ Estimated Time: 30 days
💡 Tips:
  • Cannot finalize earlier
Step 6

Submit Settlement

File settlement agreement and final decree.

⏱ Estimated Time: 2-4 hours
💡 Tips:
  • Both sign agreement
  • Comprehensive property division
Step 7

Receive Final Decree

Judge signs final decree of divorce.

⏱ Estimated Time: 1-3 weeks
💡 Tips:
  • May not require hearing if agreed

Required Forms for Georgia Divorce

Petition for Divorce (Varies by county)

Required

Domestic Relations Financial Affidavit (DRFA)

Required

Final Decree (Varies)

Required

Note: Always use the most current forms from your state's court website. Forms may be updated periodically.

Cost Breakdown for Georgia DIY Divorce

💰 DIY Divorce

$225-325
  • Filing fee: $200-250
  • Service fee: $25-75
  • Misc costs: $25-$100

👔 With Attorney

$2,500-18,000

Includes attorney fees, court costs, and filing fees for uncontested to contested cases

For detailed cost breakdown including attorney fees and scenarios: View Georgia Divorce Costs →

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

1

Not completing financial affidavit

2

Trying to file before 30-day period

3

Incomplete property division

Frequently Asked Questions About Georgia DIY Divorce

Can I file for divorce without a lawyer in Georgia?

Yes, Georgia has relatively simple procedures for uncontested divorces. Many counties provide free self-help resources.

How long does a Georgia divorce take?

With the 30-day waiting period, most uncontested divorces in Georgia take 2-4 months total.

Need Professional Help?

While DIY divorce can save money in Georgia, consulting with an attorney can help you understand your rights and avoid costly mistakes.

Find Georgia Divorce Lawyers Questions to Ask a Lawyer