What Can I Expect From a Contested Divorce Lawyer?

A contested divorce is a legal dispute that pits spouses against one another. This is often not in the best interests of the children involved or the spouses. 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. 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.

Contending a divorce involves many moving parts, and it is often a complicated process. A financial disclosure form must be filed for a contested divorce. The form requires the parties to disclose certain documents. As required by law, spouses must give a copy of any financial records. These forms are known as 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. 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 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. Although Illinois does not require mediation, it can be beneficial if the spouses are close to each other. The trained mediator can help the parties reach a settlement, without the need for 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.

While a divorce is a legal dispute, it can take weeks or even months to finalize. A contested divorce may also result in a financial or emotional battle. Uncontested divorce can be expensive and stressful. But it can also be a great way to avoid a contested divorce. 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