Pro Se Divorce

Pro Se (pro-say) – appearing for oneself instead of retaining a lawyer.

Divorce can be a very complicated process. You have full responsibility for complying with all procedural and substantive requirements of the law. If all documents are not completed, signed, notarized, and filed as required by law, the divorce pleadings are not in compliance with the law; a judge cannot grant your request for divorce and may dismiss your case. You are responsible for scheduling with the Court any hearings related to your divorce proceeding.

The Court cannot act as your attorney, nor can the Court help you prove or defend your case. This action involves important legal rights and the Bibb Judicial Circuit urges you to hire an attorney. An attorney will be familiar not only with the law, but will also be familiar with the procedures of this Court. Due to the changing nature of the law and the factual differences in each person’s situation, these forms may or may not be appropriate in your particular case. The information on the website may also become outdated. USE THE FORMS AT YOUR OWN RISK.

The information provided below may or may not be useful in understanding the different aspects of appearing in Court including the paperwork and/or forms necessary. IF YOU AGREE TO ALL TERMS ABOVE and still wish to proceed without an attorney, please click the appropriate link below and follow the instructions. This information is subject to change without notice. We do not provide forms for divorces with minor children.

YOU MAY NEED AN ATTORNEY IF:

  • The case is contested and your spouse has a lawyer.
  • You cannot locate your spouse to serve him or her with your papers.
  • You or your spouse has a house, pension, or large amount of property or income.
  • You might lose custody of your children.
  • You think you will have difficulty getting documents from your spouse about retirement funds, income, etc.
  • Even if it is a friendly divorce, you should talk to a lawyer before you sign any settlement paper or file anything in court.

STATE LAW, OCGA § 15-19-51 PROHIBITS COURT PERSONNEL (INCLUDING STAFF ATTORNEYS OR LAW CLERKS, CALENDAR CLERKS, CLERK’S OFFICE STAFF, AND SHERIFF’S DEPARTMENT STAFF) FROM GIVING LEGAL ADVICE OR ANSWERING LEGAL QUESTIONS.