Explaining Contested Divorce

There are two types of divorce - contested and uncontested.  A contested divorce is one in which the spouses could not agree on important issues such as child custody, child support, spousal maintenance, allocation of debts, and property distribution. Contested divorce also occurs when one of the spouses objects to the idea of getting a divorce altogether.

In an uncontested divorce, the spouses agree on child support, child custody, alimony, the allocation of debts, and the division of their property and assets. An uncontested divorce is much less complicated, proceeds through the courts much faster and is a lot more affordable to both parties.

Typically, judges and attorneys prefer to settle divorces out of court. If you and your spouse are having a difficult time coming to an agreement about the terms of your divorce, generally your lawyers will help you come to a settlement eventually.

What is the Contested Divorce Process?

If you are getting a divorce, the first plan of action is to hire a Nassau County contested divorce attorney to represent you.  If you are having trouble agreeing on issues such as child custody, child support and asset division, hiring an attorney is the first and foremost step that you must take in order to secure your future, after the divorce.

Handling a contested divorce involves several aspects, both inside and outside of the courtroom. Your attorney will be essential in gathering documentation and drafting paperwork that will be used to propose agreements with your spouse, his or her attorney, and a court appointed mediator and the family court Judge. The process followed in a divorce proceeding is as follows:

• You meet with and hire an attorney
• Your Spouse is served with the divorce petition
• Your Spouse responds to the divorce petition
• In some cases, especially those involving children: a temporary hearing
• Discovery
• Settlement
• Trial
• Post trial motions
• Appeal

If you and your spouse are having difficulty coming to an agreement on very important issues and you see yourself having a contested divorce, Nassau County contested divorce attorney Jane K. Cristal, PC can help. She has over twenty years of experience in divorce and family law and she has helped many clients in your situation come to amicable conclusions when they were facing contested divorces.

Contact Nassau County Contested Divorce Lawyer Jane K. Cristal, PC today, for a free case evaluation.