Divorces can be messy, intimidating and costly - but it doesn’t have to be. If you and your partner have mutually decided to divorce and have no assets, children or have agreed on how to handle these issues - you can create your own divorce.

With some common sense and some research, there is no reason you should not be able to handle your divorce on your own. Saving money is the main reason people have a do-it-yourself divorce and there really is not any reason not to.

The first step is research. You need to find out all the regulations for your state. Although most states will allow you to represent yourself in a divorce, each state has their own rules governing how it is to be handled. Searching the internet for your state’s legal websites is a good place to start. Even libraries may have some law books you can check out.

Next you will need to find your divorce forms. You can browse local college and university libraries for reference books that carry the forms. After all, the laws change and you want to make sure you have the latest forms. Of course you can always search online for the forms as well. Many sites will charge a fee for downloading and even processing them - but there are others that allow downloading for free.

Make sure you sit down with your spouse and iron out any potential issues that might arise. Child custody, divorce settlement and asset splitting are all issues that will need attention. Usually with a do-it-yourself divorce, it’s advisable to use a lawyer to make sure each partner is being fairly treated if child custody is an issue. If both spouses are in agreement though, it will cut down on your costs considerably.

Fill out your forms carefully. Read each one completely, making sure you understand them. If you have any problems, some sites online have instructions and information - or you can consult a paralegal. Once they are filled out, you will have to have them notarized. Banks can accomplish this for you for a small fee. Do not forget to make copies for your own files.

Once you are done, take the forms to your county clerk’s office - you can find this by checking the yellow pages or calling your city hall. Bear in mind that if children are involved, you might have to file with family court as well. You will receive notification of when you are to appear for your hearing. Remember even though the forms are free, filing is not. Each state will be different, but filing can range anywhere from $50 to $150.

Attend each court hearing with all your paperwork in hand. Be prepared for the judge to ask any questions and if you have any of your own.

This type of divorce makes sense if both parties are willing and have no outstanding issues. If you find your spouse wants to fight it out, a lawyer is the better way to go.