Can I get divorced without a lawyer?

Many uncontested divorces are handled pro se. If there are contested assets, support disputes, or custody conflict, consider consulting an attorney.

What is the difference between a petition and a response?

The petition starts the case (you are the petitioner). The response is what you file if your spouse filed first and served you.

Does this cover custody?

It includes a custody framework, and a dedicated custody-agreement generator is available for parenting plans and schedules.

Virginia Divorce Forms

Start or respond to a divorce with court-ready petition and response documents.

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An uncontested or simple divorce often does not require a lawyer. This tool drafts the Petition for Dissolution, the Response, and a marital settlement framework covering property division and, where relevant, custody.

Divorce in Virginia: what the official sources say

Court: Circuit Court

A no-fault divorce requires living separate and apart, without cohabitation and without interruption, for one year. source
With a separation agreement and no minor children, the separation period is 6 months instead. source

Official Virginia forms and instructions

Checked against the official sources on 2026-09-10. Court rules change, so confirm them before you file.

Before you file in Virginia, confirm

How long you must live in Virginia before you can file
Whether Virginia has a waiting period before a divorce can be final
Which official Virginia forms must be filed with your petition
How your spouse must be served, and the filing fee or fee waiver

The official Virginia court site below has the current answers.

Documents you can generate

Petition for Dissolution of Marriage
Response to a petition you were served with
Property division and settlement framework
Formatted for your state family court

Official resources and free legal help

Pro Se Legal Docs is not a law firm and does not give legal advice. These templates help you prepare your own filing; they do not replace advice from a licensed Virginia attorney.

Frequently asked questions

Can I get divorced without a lawyer?: Many uncontested divorces are handled pro se. If there are contested assets, support disputes, or custody conflict, consider consulting an attorney.
What is the difference between a petition and a response?: The petition starts the case (you are the petitioner). The response is what you file if your spouse filed first and served you.
Does this cover custody?: It includes a custody framework, and a dedicated custody-agreement generator is available for parenting plans and schedules.

Other Virginia forms

Eviction Defense Small Claims Debt Lawsuit Defense Domestic Violence Restraining Order Custody Agreement Unpaid Wage Claim Civil Harassment Restraining Order Bankruptcy Schedule

Divorce forms for every state

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This is a self-help document generator, not a law firm, and does not provide legal advice. Court rules and filing requirements in Virginia can change - confirm specifics with your local court clerk or a licensed attorney.