What Can I Expect From a Contested Divorce Lawyer?

A contested divorce is when spouses are in conflict. It is not always in the best interest of the children or the spouses involved. This is especially true for couples with children. Parents must work together to ensure the well-being of their children until they reach adulthood. After a contested divorce, cooperation may not be possible. An experienced contested divorce lawyer can help you protect your rights and keep the proceedings civil.

Divorce proceedings can be complicated and involve many moving parts. A financial disclosure form must be filed for a contested divorce. The form requires that the parties disclose certain documents. As required by law, spouses must give a copy of any financial records. These forms are called 16.2 disclosures. They are required to provide these details in order to make sure that the divorce will proceed as smoothly as possible.

How long it takes the spouses to respond will determine the length of a divorce case. The spouse who has agreed to divorce will have to sign the divorce papers. Some states have a waiting period before the divorce is finalized. The contested divorce lawyer will prepare a Settlement Agreement (or Stipulation) of Settlement in addition to preparing a response.

There will be a variety of documents required for a contested divorcement. Attorneys will need to prepare large amounts of documentation for both sides. A court will also ask about the availability of experts. These experts can be useful in both settlement and trial situations. Some common experts are accountants, forensic accountants, and pension analysts. They can track marital assets and money, and they can also be employability specialists for those who are not working. In some cases, the court will order the use of an expert, and then make a final decision.

The attorneys might try to resolve a contested divorce through mediation. Even though mediation is not required in Illinois, it can prove beneficial for spouses who are close to one another. A trained mediator will help the two parties reach a settlement without the use of attorneys. A mediated divorce is different than a contested divorce because the two sides can make a settlement agreement without the help of a mediator.

Although a divorce is a legal matter, it can take several weeks to complete. A contested divorce can also be an emotional or financial battle. Uncontested divorce can be expensive and stressful. However, it can be a great way for a couple to avoid a contested separation. A lawyer can help make the process as smooth and painless as possible. A negotiated divorce should be as affordable as possible for both of you.

Law Office of Russell D. Knight

1165 N Clark St # 700, Chicago, IL 60610, United States

(773) 334 6311