An uncontested divorce is relatively quick and inexpensive. A contested divorce, on the other hand, takes more time and is more expensive.

Once the plaintiff files divorce papers, they must be served to the defendant. They must also submit an affidavit to prove service has occurred. From there, the process moves forward.

Negotiating

Important issues such as child custody and parenting time, spousal support (alimony), property division, and debt allocation must be negotiated in a typical divorce. Couples who agree on all these matters can proceed with an uncontested divorce by completing a settlement agreement and filing it with the court.

This reduces the financial stress that comes with protracted legal battles. Moreover, it allows spouses to maintain control over the outcome of their case rather than leaving decisions up to a judge who may prioritize specific concerns over others or make arbitrary judgments.

The more control spouses have over their case, the easier it will be to reach a final agreement that they can all live with. Our experienced family law attorneys help couples achieve their goals while minimizing the time and expense of the divorce process. Contact our firm today to get started. We serve clients throughout the greater Denver area and beyond.

Settlement Agreement

An uncontested divorce Tampa is typically much quicker and less expensive than a contested divorce. However, this is only true if both spouses agree to all legally relevant issues, including the division of property, child custody and parenting time (visitation), child support, spousal support, and healthcare insurance coverage.

It is also essential that the spouses sign an agreement, settlement, or stipulation, resolving all issues and submitting it to the court for consideration. An attorney is often helpful in ensuring that the document covers everything legally required, such as acknowledging that the spouses understand their rights and responsibilities and agreeing to an equitable resolution of all issues.

It is also possible that the spouses can come to a settlement before the case goes to trial and avoid going to court entirely. This may be particularly helpful for couples who want to remain amicable or who have children because it can prevent unnecessary anger and tension.

Filing

When a couple agrees to all aspects of their divorce, they can file for an uncontested divorce. This process requires spouses to put their settlement agreement into writing, file the paperwork with the court, and possibly attend a brief hearing.

A judge will review the paperwork during the hearing to ensure all terms are agreeable. This usually involves the judge asking questions to clarify specific settlement details. In this way, the court can confirm the terms of the divorce and issue a final Judgment of Divorce.

When spouses settle for an uncontested divorce, they can often avoid the lengthy court battles and expensive fees associated with a contested divorce. This helps couples remain amicable, which can be suitable for both parties. In addition, less information is made public when a couple chooses an uncontested divorce, which can help maintain privacy for both parties. This is important, especially for couples with children.

Court Hearings

While a couple may have agreed on most of the details of their divorce outside of court, there can still be disputes that need to be resolved in the courtroom. A spouse must have representation throughout this process.

The first step is to buy an index number at the county clerk’s office and file a Summons with Notice or a Verified Complaint (which contains the reasons for the divorce). After that, it will need to be served on the other party by someone over 18.

Next, paperwork, including the settlement agreement, plans for continued healthcare coverage, and forms related to parenting children must be filed. A judge will review all of this and sign the final divorce judgment. Depending on the complexity of your case, it may take anywhere from six to twelve weeks to get a divorce judgment in New York. A skilled, uncontested divorce lawyer can help you understand the process and help you reach an agreement quickly.