Massachusetts DIY Divorce Options and Resources

Filing for divorce in Massachusetts without an attorney is fully legal and can save thousands of dollars when both spouses agree on the terms. The state offers structured DIY divorce pathways—from a streamlined joint petition track to statewide electronic filing—that make the process accessible for self-represented litigants.

Whether you qualify for the faster Section 1A joint petition or need to file a Section 1B complaint, understanding your options is the first step toward an affordable resolution. This guide covers every major DIY divorce pathway in Massachusetts, including eligibility, official resources, court mediation, and practical filing tips.

Section 1A Joint Petition: The Fastest Track

The Section 1A joint petition under G.L. c. 208, § 1A is the most efficient way to obtain a DIY divorce in Massachusetts. Both spouses file together, submitting a signed separation agreement that resolves all issues—property division, support, custody, and parenting time—before the case even begins.

Section 1A cases typically receive a hearing within 30 days of filing. At the hearing, the judge reviews the agreement for fairness, and if approved, enters a Judgment of Divorce Nisi. The divorce becomes absolute 90 days after the nisi judgment, bringing the total timeline to roughly four months from filing to finalization.

Eligibility check: Section 1A requires complete agreement on all terms. If you disagree on any issue—even one—you must file under Section 1B instead. Both spouses must appear at the hearing.

Section 1B Complaint: When You Cannot Agree on Everything

If you and your spouse cannot reach a full agreement, you can still file pro se using a Section 1B complaint under G.L. c. 208, § 1B. One spouse files the complaint and serves the other, who then has 20 days to respond. Cases filed under 1B can still settle before trial—many do after mediation or negotiation—and convert to an uncontested resolution.

The court provides free downloadable forms for both 1A and 1B filings, including the CJD-101A complaint form, financial statements, and child support guidelines worksheets. All forms are available as fillable PDFs from the Massachusetts Probate and Family Court.

eFileMA: Statewide Electronic Filing

Massachusetts offers statewide electronic filing through the eFileMA portal, available in all 14 Probate and Family Court divisions. Self-represented litigants can create a free account, upload completed forms, pay fees electronically, and receive filing confirmations without visiting the courthouse.

The portal accepts both Section 1A and 1B filings. An e-filing surcharge of $22 applies per transaction in addition to the standard filing fee. For filers who prefer in-person submission, every Probate and Family Court division accepts paper filings at the clerk's office.

Free Court-Connected Mediation

Massachusetts provides free Dispute Intervention through probation officers at every Probate and Family Court. This court-connected mediation service helps couples resolve contested issues—custody schedules, support amounts, property disputes—without the cost of private mediation or a full trial.

Dispute Intervention can convert a contested Section 1B case into an uncontested agreement, saving both time and money. Judges frequently refer parties to this service before scheduling contested hearings, and participation is available at no charge regardless of income.

Step-by-Step: Filing a DIY Divorce in Massachusetts

1. Confirm residency — at least one spouse must have lived in Massachusetts for one year, or the grounds for divorce must have occurred in the state per G.L. c. 208, § 5.
2. Choose your track — Section 1A (joint petition, full agreement) or Section 1B (complaint, contested or partially agreed).
3. Complete the forms — download the appropriate packet from mass.gov. For 1A, prepare the joint petition, separation agreement, and financial statements. For 1B, prepare the complaint (CJD-101A) and financial statement.
4. File with the court — submit via eFileMA or in person at the Probate and Family Court in the proper county. Pay the filing fee of $200 plus a $15 surcharge. Section 1B filings also require a $5 summons fee.
5. Serve your spouse (1B only) — arrange service by the sheriff or a disinterested person. Section 1A does not require service since both spouses file jointly.
6. Attend the hearing — for 1A cases, both spouses appear and the judge reviews the agreement. For 1B, attend scheduled conferences and any trial dates.
7. Wait the nisi period — after the judge enters a Judgment of Divorce Nisi, there is a mandatory 90-day waiting period before the divorce becomes absolute.

If you have minor children, both parents must complete a court-approved parent education program per Standing Order 3-23 before the divorce can be finalized. Check our Massachusetts Divorce Filing Checklist for the complete document list.

Filing Fees and Fee Waivers

Massachusetts divorce filing fees are uniform across all Probate and Family Court divisions:

• Section 1A joint petition: $200 + $15 surcharge = $215 total
• Section 1B complaint: $200 + $15 surcharge + $5 summons = $220 total
• eFileMA surcharge: $22 per electronic transaction

If you cannot afford the filing fee, you may request an Affidavit of Indigency to waive court costs. The court evaluates your income, assets, and expenses to determine eligibility. The form is available at any clerk's office or through eFileMA.

Estimate Your Massachusetts Divorce Costs

Use our free calculator below to estimate total costs for your Massachusetts divorce, including filing fees, service costs, and other expenses based on your situation.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I file for divorce in Massachusetts without a lawyer?
Yes. Massachusetts allows self-representation in all civil cases, including divorce. The Probate and Family Court provides free forms, instructions, and court-connected mediation to support pro se filers.

What is the difference between Section 1A and Section 1B?
Section 1A is a joint petition where both spouses agree on all terms and file together. Section 1B is a complaint filed by one spouse, used when there is disagreement on any issue. Both tracks allow pro se filing.

How long does a DIY divorce take in Massachusetts?
Section 1A cases typically finalize in about four months—roughly 30 days to hearing plus the 90-day nisi period. Section 1B cases take longer depending on whether the parties reach agreement or proceed to trial.

Moving Forward

A DIY divorce in Massachusetts is a practical option for couples who can agree on key terms or are willing to use the court's free mediation services to bridge any gaps. Between the Section 1A joint petition, statewide eFileMA access, and Dispute Intervention, the state provides genuine pathways to dissolve a marriage without the cost of full legal representation.

For a complete breakdown of every document you need, see our Massachusetts Divorce Filing Checklist. To understand which track fits your situation, review our guide to Massachusetts uncontested vs. contested divorce.