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. 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.
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 that the parties disclose certain documents. The spouses must provide a copy of all financial records, as required by law. 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.
The length of a divorce case will depend on the amount of time it takes for the spouses to file a response. 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. In addition to filing a response, the contested divorce lawyer will also prepare a Settlement Agreement or Stipulation of Settlement.
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 are useful in both trial and settlement 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. 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.
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. 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