Do I have to go to court in order to get a divorce?

Do I have to go to court in order to get a divorce?

I am often asked, "Do I have to go to court to get a divorce?" And the answer is: "Maybe." And it really depends on what you're working with. For example, if you have a situation where you and your spouse have an agreement, or over time come to an agreement, the agreement is reduced to a written document. It's submitted to court; you don't have to go. If you and your spouse can't agree, you're going to court because you are asking the judge to make the call. And that requires you to be in court. If you are a self-represented party, you are speaking for yourself in court. If you are represented by a family law attorney, then the lawyer is usually doing the talking for you in court. Sometimes the court puts people on the stand, and they're questioned. And they are asked to give answers to questions. So whether or not you have to show up in court really depends on what you are working with... right off the back.