Do I have to have an attorney to do my divorce?

No, you are not required to hire an attorney to help you with your divorce. In fact, roughly 80% of divorces processed in LA County are handled without lawyers. Most courthouses have a self-help center that helps you work through the process (mostly by filling out the forms). They cannot give legal advice; for that, you need a lawyer. 

You do not have to hire an attorney to go through a divorce. Some people handle the process on their own, especially when both parties are in agreement and the situation is relatively simple, with limited assets and no disputes over children.

Even in those cases, divorce is still a legal process with long-term financial and parenting consequences. Property division, support, and custody arrangements can be more complicated than they first appear, and once everything is finalized, changes can be difficult.

In more complex situations, such as those involving significant assets, business interests, or disagreements over custody, having an attorney can make a meaningful difference. A family law attorney can help ensure that all relevant information is addressed and that any agreement reflects a fair and informed outcome.

The right approach depends on your specific circumstances. Many people find it helpful to at least speak with an attorney early in the process to better understand their options and avoid issues later on.