Though everyone anticipates the person they wed to be their partner forever, this is not always the case. As such, it’s essential to understand how to proceed if you and your spouse decide divorce is in your best interest. Depending on the state of your relationship, you may be able to proceed with an uncontested divorce. If you’re unfamiliar with what this means, you’ll want to keep reading. You’ll also discover why it’s necessary to enlist the assistance of a Monroe, Louisiana divorce lawyer to help you through this process.
What Is an Uncontested Divorce?
While many assume all divorces are bitter battles in which neither side is willing to speak, let alone cooperate, this is far from the truth. In reality, many couples can work out their differences without court intervention. This is especially true for spouses on good terms when their marriage ends.
As such, an uncontested divorce occurs when a couple agrees to all terms and conditions of a divorce. This includes property division, alimony, child custody, child support, and other significant issues that can arise when a couple divorces. As such, the couple will not have to appear in court for a hearing, as your spouse will sign the divorce petition with the terms you both agreed to.
If I Can Work With My Spouse, Why Do I Need a Lawyer?
Though you don’t technically need a lawyer for an uncontested divorce, it’s in your best interest to enlist legal guidance for this process. Unfortunately, those who try to navigate this on their own often find themselves struggling to navigate this process, subsequently dragging out the process and incurring additional costs along the way.
While you and your spouse may be able to agree to the terms of your divorce, it’s crucial to understand that you should not forgo hiring an attorney for this process. Though it seems as simple as signing a piece of paper, this is far from the truth.
In reality, the spouse who files the petition will have to meticulously note down the terms of the agreement, as this is a legally binding document. As such, ensuring what you include in the document reflects your agreement is critical. An attorney can help you draft the agreement for you, providing peace of mind.
Additionally, the spouse who is served the papers must review the terms carefully before signing. Though you and your spouse trust each other, it’s not unheard of for a spouse to subtly change some of the terms to favor themselves. Having an attorney review the petition can help ensure the document reflects your discussion.
At Breithaupt, DuBos, & Wolleson, we understand that getting a divorce can pose challenges, even if you and your spouse can agree on the terms. Our dedicated team is ready to help you navigate these complex processes to achieve the best possible outcome for your unique circumstances. Reach out today to consult with a staff member to learn how we can help with your uncontested divorce.
