In today’s digital age, it’s only natural to turn to Google when you have questions. Whether it’s how to fix a leaky faucet or find the best new restaurant in town, search engines are often our first stop for quick information. But when it comes to something as personal, complex, and high-stakes as divorce, relying on Google to guide your decisions can be not only misleading, it can be downright damaging.
As a family law attorney, I’ve seen the fallout firsthand. Clients walk into my office with printouts of articles, blog posts, and forum threads, convinced they already know how their divorce should go. While being informed is a good thing, mistaking Google results for legal advice is not.
Here’s why using Google as your divorce advisor is a bad idea:
Google Doesn’t Know Your Case
Divorce is deeply personal. Every case is unique, shaped by specific facts: the length of the marriage, financial circumstances, child custody arrangements, and even the personalities involved. Google, on the other hand, offers general information aimed at a wide audience. What worked for someone in another state or another country for that matter, may not apply to your situation at all.
I often meet clients who believe they’re entitled to certain assets or custody outcomes because an article they read said so. But once we dig into the specifics of their case, it’s clear the law doesn't work the way they thought. This can lead to false expectations and, ultimately, disappointment.
State Laws Vary
Family law is governed largely at the state level, and statutes can vary widely from one jurisdiction to the next. What’s legally accurate in California might be completely off base in New York or Texas. Google doesn’t filter information by jurisdiction unless you specifically ask it to—and even then, you may not be getting reliable sources.
I’ve seen clients misinterpret laws because they relied on an out-of-state article or didn’t realize the information they were reading was outdated. The result: costly legal mistakes that could have been avoided with an experienced family law attorney.
Misinformation Is Everywhere
The Internet is full of opinion masquerading as fact. Personal blogs, Reddit threads, and even some legal websites can contain outdated, incorrect, or overly simplistic information. Unfortunately, many people don’t know how to distinguish a credible source from a dubious one.
I’ve had clients try to use online “calculators” to determine alimony or child support and come away with wildly inaccurate numbers. Others have attempted to draft their own divorce agreements using templates they found online—only to discover later that the documents weren’t enforceable or left out critical provisions.
Legal Advice Is Not One-Size-Fits-All
Even the best, most reputable legal websites include disclaimers stating that the information provided is not a substitute for legal advice. Why? Because legal advice takes into account the specific facts of your case, as well as current laws and local court procedures. It requires analysis, experience, and strategy, all essential elements that a search engine can’t provide.
Trying to “DIY” your divorce based on what you read online might seem like a cost-saving move at first. But in the long run, it often leads to errors that are far more expensive to fix than doing it right the first time.
Emotions and Strategy Need a Human Touch
Divorce isn’t just about law; it’s also about emotion, negotiation, and long-term planning. A good attorney doesn’t just cite statutes. They help you stay focused, protect your interests, and plan for the future. They know how to navigate difficult conversations, mediate disputes, and avoid unnecessary conflict.
Google can’t tell you when to compromise or when to fight. It can’t read the nuances of your spouse’s behavior or anticipate how a particular judge might rule. But a seasoned family law attorney can.
Search for the Right Thing: Experienced Divorce Lawyer
Google is a great tool for basic understanding, but it should never replace the expertise of a qualified family law attorney. When your future, your finances, and your family are on the line, you need more than just information. You need guidance, strategy, and advocacy.
If you’re considering divorce or in the midst of proceedings, do yourself a favor: consult a professional. Search for an attorney who has years of experience specializing in practicing family law. Talk with friends and family members who have used a divorce lawyer and were pleased with their performance. Interview the top candidates to make sure the attorney you select to represent you is someone you feel you can work with over a period of months or even years. Your case – your family deserves more than a search result.