What Can I Expect From a Contested Divorce Lawyer?

A contested divorce is a legal dispute that pits spouses against one another. It is not always in the best interest of the children or the spouses involved. This is especially true for couples with children. In order to ensure that the kids are well cared for, parents must work together until the children 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. 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. These details are necessary to ensure that the divorce process runs smoothly.

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. 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 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. In some cases, the court will order the use of an expert, and then make a final decision.

During the contested divorce, the attorneys may attempt to settle a 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 may also result in a financial or emotional battle. A contested divorce can be costly and stressful. But it can also be a great way to avoid a contested divorce. Your lawyer will help you make sure the process is as smooth 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