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 particularly true of 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. For example, a contested divorce requires a financial disclosure form to be filed. 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. These details are necessary to ensure that the divorce process runs smoothly.

The length of a divorce case will depend on the amount of time it takes for the spouses to file a response. 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.

The documents needed for a contested divorce will vary, and attorneys will need to prepare a large amount of documentation for both parties. 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 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.

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. 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 can also be an emotional or financial battle. Uncontested divorce can be expensive 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. 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