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How To Start the Divorce Process

Making the decision to divorce from your partner is not to be taken lightly. The road ahead can be long and emotional, full of many unknowns. You will have many questions about what to expect from the divorce process. When two people have been together for many years, it can be painful and complex dividing assets, especially when children are involved. It can feel overwhelming to know where to start once a couple decides to not longer be together, a divorce attorney will prove to be helpful in initiating the divorce process.

Find a Divorce Lawyer

One of the most important decisions you can make once you and your spouse have decided to divorce is to choose an attorney that’s right for you. You will want to choose an attorney who feels like the best fit for your needs during, what can be, a cumbersome process. Allocating the right attorney can not only save you money, but can help to move you through the process as quickly as possible. It’s important to interview the attorney before you decide to hire them. You will be working with them closely so it’s important to choose someone you can trust and has your best interests at the forefront.

Divorce Papers

Your attorney will be a vital part of this process as the details around some of this may vary depending on the state that you live in. When divorce papers are served to your spouse, it commences the divorce process. Each state has a required waiting period once the papers have been signed, where everything slows down and neither party can really make any big financial decisions. This waiting period varies by state and cannot start until the divorce papers have been completed and signed.

When Your Spouse Refuses the Papers

It’s important to note that not all divorce processes are contentious. In some situations, both parties agree to divorce amicably and maneuver through the divorce process with ease. When both are in agreement, the spouse will only need to receive the papers with a signature. If your spouse refuses to sign the paperwork, you may have to hire someone to serve the papers to them. The waiting period before a judge can see parties does not start until the papers are signed. In cases where the other party refuses to sign divorce papers despite efforts to get them to do so, their response is considered to be uncontested. You must wait for a court date to go before a judge.

The work of an attorney will be helpful in navigating through the divorce process. It can be an emotionally challenging process, having an attorney who understands divorce laws can protect your interests and support you during your divorce will be important.