Common Mistakes on Divorce Forms and How to Avoid Them

Even small errors on divorce forms can lead to significant delays, requests for correction, or complete rejection of your uncontested divorce package. New York courts require complete accuracy, consistency, and proper formatting across all submitted paperwork. Understanding the most common mistakes—and how to avoid them—will save you time, frustration, and unnecessary court visits.

Below is a detailed guide to the top issues people face when completing uncontested divorce forms in New York, along with practical tips to ensure your paperwork is court-ready the first time.

Why Accuracy Matters in Uncontested Divorce Forms

Because uncontested divorce relies on written documents instead of courtroom testimony, the judge must be able to rely on your forms as fully accurate and complete. Missing signatures, outdated numbers, inconsistent addresses, or incorrect service procedures raise red flags for the court and may cause:

Filing rejection
Requests for clarification or amendments
Delays of several weeks or months
Additional fees for re-filing
Scheduling issues, especially in busy counties like NYC, Kings, Queens, Westchester, and Nassau

Completing the forms correctly the first time ensures your divorce proceeds smoothly and without unnecessary complications.

Top 10 Critical Errors

1. Using Outdated Forms

Courts frequently update forms to reflect new laws or procedural rules. Many people unknowingly download versions from unofficial legal websites or old PDF repositories.

How to avoid this:
Always download directly from the official New York Courts website. Check the form revision date at the bottom of each form before printing or filling it out.

2. Incomplete Information

Leaving blank sections—intentionally or accidentally—is one of the most common reasons for rejection.

Tip:
If something does not apply, write “N/A” instead of leaving it empty. Use clearly labeled continuation sheets when you run out of space.

3. Inconsistent Information

Your marriage date, addresses, spouse’s name spelling, and dates of separation must match across all forms.

Best practice:
Create a master information sheet before you begin. Refer to it while completing each form to maintain consistency.

4. Missing or Improper Signatures

Signing in the wrong place or signing before appearing in front of a notary invalidates the entire document.

Remember:

Only sign where your name is printed
Never sign before a notary session begins
Use a notary with an active, valid commission

5. Incorrect Filing Location

Many people file in the wrong county, resulting in immediate rejection.

Correct filing counties include:

County where either spouse currently lives
County where either spouse lived during the marriage
County where the marriage took place

Always verify residency compliance under NY Domestic Relations Law.

6. Math Errors on Financial Forms

Financial forms—especially the Statement of Net Worth—require accurate calculations. Even small additions or subtraction mistakes can cause issues.

Avoid mistakes by:

Using a calculator
Rounding consistently
Having someone else double-check your figures

7. Missing Required Attachments

Courts require supporting documentation such as financial statements, child support worksheets, and property schedules.

Avoid rejection by:
Creating an attachment checklist, labeling each document clearly (“Exhibit A,” “Exhibit B”), and keeping copies for your records.

8. Improper Service of Papers

Service must follow strict New York rules. If your spouse is not served properly, your entire case may stall.

Key rules:

You cannot serve papers yourself
The server must be over 18
Use certified mail with return receipt or a professional process server
Server must complete the Affidavit of Service accurately

9. Vague Language in a Settlement Agreement

If your agreement is unclear, the judge may request revisions or refuse to sign the final judgment.

Be specific about:

Dollar amounts
Parenting schedules (days, times, exchange locations)
Payment deadlines
Responsibilities for debts, insurance, and taxes

Precise language prevents future disputes.

10. Outdated Information

Forms filled out months ago may no longer reflect current income, addresses, debts, or child-related facts.

Before filing:

Update financial information
Verify mailing addresses
Replace outdated pay stubs or bank statements

Additional Mistakes People Often Overlook

Incorrect Notarization

A large percentage of rejected divorce packets involve notarization errors.
Make sure:

You bring valid ID
You sign only in front of the notary
The notary completes the jurat and uses their stamp
Remote Online Notarization follows NY state protocols

Unreadable Handwriting

Typed answers are strongly preferred. Handwritten forms often cause delays due to legibility issues.

Failing to Use Black Ink for Signatures

Some counties require black ink for notarized signatures to ensure clarity in scanning systems.

Forgetting the Divorce Index Number

Many people forget to write their index number on each form after purchasing it from the clerk.
Your case cannot be processed without it.

Quality Control Checklist

Before submitting your packet, confirm that:

All fields are completed or marked “N/A”
All names, dates, and addresses match
All calculations are correct and rechecked
All required signatures and notarizations are present
All attachments are properly labeled
Marriage certificate is included
Financial disclosures and child-related documents are complete
Service of papers was completed correctly and the affidavit is notarized

Double-checking this list can prevent weeks of delay.

Need Help Reviewing Your Divorce Forms?

We offer affordable document review for individuals filing uncontested divorces in New York. Our team examines your entire packet for accuracy, completeness, and legal compliance—ensuring your submission is accepted without delays.

If you’re preparing your own divorce papers and want peace of mind before filing, schedule a consultation today.