It sometimes makes sense to choose a higher-priced product and enjoy its extra dividends, such as better service and peace of mind. The fees and costs for a no-fault divorce in Georgia and other states will vary between a high range and often times a very low range. In one state, a popular independent television station has reported on what it cost a woman who wanted to get a quick, cheap divorce.
The woman responded to a website that advertised a divorce in one day, for a price that was mere pennies on the dollar compared to the average fees charged by legal professionals. She thought that she had nothing to lose so she signed up by giving her debit card number and filling in the information requested. The next thing that happened was a shock that was surprising beyond belief.
Instead of the $199 advertised, the service took $649 from her account. The Arizona woman reported to Channel KTVK’s investigational program “3 On Your Side” that she received a mocking and taunting response from the man who answered the phone. He refused to give her a refund.
She then heard nothing about any action taken toward her divorce. To this day, nothing has happened, according to the woman. All of that was in October, and the woman has not heard anything yet. When the TV station reached the company, it did not get a response other than an email stating that the site provides a great service.
The station’s investigation revealed a number of names associated with the company. It was apparently sued in another state where the owner was fined for practicing law without a license. A proceeding was pending in another state. The woman summed up her lesson learned by concluding that something as important as a no-fault divorce should not be purchased online from a basically anonymous source. Whether one resides in Georgia or another state, it’s good to remember that the Internet is filled with advertised services that may — or may not — be legitimate, and that the best procedure is always to investigate first.
Source: azfamily.com, “3OYS: ‘Cheap divorce’ is expensive lesson”, Gary Harper and Liana Enriquez, Mar. 4, 2015