How to File for Divorce in Hawaii Without a Lawyer (2026 Guide)

Overview: Filing for Divorce in Hawaii Without a Lawyer

Hawaii requires 6 months residency (3 months for military) with no specified waiting period. The state is pure no-fault using equitable distribution. DIY divorce is feasible with straightforward procedures.

Can You File Without a Lawyer in Hawaii?

✓ Good Candidates for DIY Divorce:

Both agree to divorce
No minor children or agreement on custody/support
Agreement on property division
No spousal support disputes
Both willing to cooperate

⚠ Consider Hiring a Lawyer If:

Child custody or support disputes
Complex property division
Significant assets
Retirement account division
Spouse contests

Find Hawaii Divorce Lawyers →

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

Step 1

Verify 6-Month Residency

You or spouse must have lived in Hawaii for 6 months (3 months for military).

⏱ Estimated Time: N/A

💡 Tips:

Hawaii driver's license
Military orders if applicable
Proof of residency

Step 2

Complete Complaint for Divorce

Fill out Complaint for Divorce form.

⏱ Estimated Time: 2-3 hours

💡 Tips:

Filing fee: $250-300
State irretrievable breakdown
Use Hawaii court forms

Step 3

File with Family Court

Submit petition to Family Court in your circuit.

⏱ Estimated Time: 1 day

💡 Tips:

Bring original + copies
Pay filing fee
Get case number

Step 4

Serve Your Spouse

Have spouse served by authorized person.

⏱ Estimated Time: 1-2 weeks

💡 Tips:

Cannot serve yourself
Process server or sheriff
Spouse can waive service

Step 5

Exchange Financial Information

Both complete Income and Expense Statements.

⏱ Estimated Time: 2-4 hours

💡 Tips:

Required disclosure
List all income, assets, debts

Step 6

Draft Marital Settlement Agreement

Create comprehensive settlement.

⏱ Estimated Time: 4-6 hours

💡 Tips:

Address all property division
Include parenting plan if children
Both must sign

Step 7

Attend Hearing or Submit Uncontested Decree

Court may require brief hearing or allow submission.

⏱ Estimated Time: 30 minutes if hearing

💡 Tips:

Check local requirements
Bring all documents
Usually straightforward

Step 8

Receive Decree

Court issues Decree Granting Divorce.

⏱ Estimated Time: 1-3 weeks

💡 Tips:

Request certified copies
Effective immediately

Required Forms for Hawaii Divorce

Complaint for Divorce (1D-P-600)

Required

📄 Download Form

Income & Expense Statement (1D-P-652)

Required

Marital Settlement Agreement (Custom)

Required

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

Cost Breakdown for Hawaii DIY Divorce

💰 DIY Divorce

$300-400

Filing fee: $250-300
Service fee: $50-100
Misc costs: $25-$100

👔 With Attorney

$4,000-20,000

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

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

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

Not meeting residency (note military exception)

Incomplete financial statements

Missing settlement details

Not serving properly

Frequently Asked Questions About Hawaii DIY Divorce

How long do I need to live in Hawaii to file for divorce?

6 months for civilians, or 3 months for military personnel stationed in Hawaii. Only one spouse needs to meet this requirement.

Is Hawaii a no-fault divorce state?

Yes, Hawaii is a pure no-fault state. You only need to state that the marriage is irretrievably broken.

Can I file for divorce without a lawyer in Hawaii?

Yes, Hawaii provides forms and allows self-representation. Many Family Courts offer self-help services.

Need Professional Help?

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

Find Hawaii Divorce Lawyers Questions to Ask a Lawyer