If anyone has a little legal knowledge, a little advice would be cool.

I got served with divorce papers which has the standard stuff about splitting everything in half. I had planned on not wanting to take any of her retirement and she definitely has a lot more than I do but here's my question...

I don't want to pay for an attorney if I can help it. If I don't respond with a written response then the divorce is automatically granted and the judge will split everything.. Is there any other risk for me if I simply don't file a response?

I actually believe its different a lot of states.

Not positive about Florida, but here in Texas....

You don't HAVE to hire an attorney, but you should be able to present yourself to the judge at the divorce proceedings and have an opportunity to speak if you want something changed and he/she will deem then. My first ex just let me take care of stuff, didn't have an attorney, and he looked over everything before I went to the judge with my solemn promise that I would change nothing to "screw" him last minute. Worked out fine.

And, if there are kids involved, you should want to make sure all the visitation info is reasonable.

Best wishes!!

I would HIGHLY recommend that you obtain an attorney to represent you. If she has one representing her, you need to do the same.

Trust me, it is money well spent to have it done right!

I was married for 22yrs and I told him i wanted half of his retirement and he told me if i did i would have to sell the house and he would get half of that so i let him have his retirement and kept the house and we are still friends. Hope this helps best of luck

And don't miss the deadlines!

Procedures and laws are different in every state; you should look up laws concerning this issue in the state which you reside.

The man usually gets ripped off

I agree, get yourself a lawyer. I would suggest asking family & friends if they know anyone that they would recommend.

Seriously, Lee, it goes both ways. I was very fair. Not all women are out to be nasty, I promise!!!

Seriously you need to at least consult with an attorney before the deadline just to make sure your rights are will be covered.

Here in PA my ex did the same thing and he didn't get any of my 401k or my pension.

Look out for yourself and good luck

here you can agree with arbitration.. you can use the same lawyer its way cheaper since you basically agree with what you see.. however you are not sure what you see.. so use her lawyer go in with her.. and the lawyer has to be truthful to both of you.. and when you go in just ask for her to pay all the attorney fees also ..

remember also retirement has to be written in too.. if that is the case.. everything has to be written in including all bills and moneys owed on vehicles etc..