What Can I Expect From a Contested Divorce Lawyer?

A contested divorce is when spouses are in conflict. This is often not in the best interests of the children involved or the spouses. This is especially true for couples with children. Parents must work together to ensure the well-being of their children until they reach adulthood. Cooperation may not be possible after a contested divorce. An experienced contested divorce lawyer can help you protect your 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 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.

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. In some states, there is a waiting period before finalizing the divorce. 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. Common experts include 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. A trained mediator will help the two parties reach a settlement without the use of 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.

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. Uncontested divorce can be expensive and stressful. However, it can be a great way for a couple to avoid a contested separation. 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