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 particularly true of couples with children. In order to ensure that the kids are well cared for, parents must work together until the children reach adulthood. Cooperation may not be possible after a contested divorce. A seasoned contested divorce lawyer will be able to protect your legal rights and keep the proceedings civil.

Divorce proceedings can be complicated and involve many moving parts. For example, a contested divorce requires a financial disclosure form to be filed. The form requires the parties to disclose certain documents. The spouses must provide a copy of all financial records, as required by law. 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. If the spouses agree to divorce, the spouse will need to sign the divorce papers. In some states, there is a waiting period before finalizing the divorce. In addition to filing a response, the contested divorce lawyer will also prepare a Settlement Agreement or Stipulation of Settlement.

There will be a variety of documents required for a contested divorcement. Attorneys will need to prepare large amounts of documentation for both sides. The court will also inquire about the need for experts. These experts are useful in both trial and settlement situations. Some common experts are accountants, forensic accountants, and pension analysts. They will track marital money and assets, as well as employability specialists for people who are not working. Sometimes, the court may order an expert to be used and make a final determination.

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. The trained mediator can help the parties reach a settlement, without the need for attorneys. Mediated divorce is different from a contested one because both sides can reach a settlement agreement on their own without the assistance of a mediator.

While a divorce is a legal dispute, it can take weeks or even months to finalize. 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. You'll want a negotiated divorce to be as cheap as possible for both parties.

Law Office of Russell D. Knight

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

(773) 334 6311