Divorce

Getting divorced can be a mentally and emotionally daunting experience to handle alone. It is important to have knowledgeable, experienced representation to lead you through the complexities and nuances of these proceedings.

There are different paths you can take in the divorce process.

Uncontested Divorce

Some people prefer to hire a mediator and/or attorneys to negotiate a settlement pertaining to many issues including division of assets, support, liabilities and custody.  Divorce settlements can be reached through mediation, conciliation, and negotiation all without engaging in litigation. 

Once the parties reach an agreement, they file a petition for divorce with the probate and family court. Once filed, a date for an "uncontested hearing" is scheduled and the petition for divorce is presented to the court. 

Contested Divorce

Sometimes a party needs to start the process by filing a complaint for divorce. Once a complaint is filed, the other party either accepts service, often through an attorney, or will need to be served by a sheriff or constable.

During your case, you will need to gather many documents that allow you comply with the court’s rule on mandatory discovery.

When thinking about starting the divorce process, whether you plan an uncontested or contested route, it is helpful to begin to gather:

• Last three years of tax returns (personal and business)
• Last three years of bank records (for all accounts you are a signor on or a beneficiary of)
• Pay stubs
• Last three years of investment and retirement statements
• Loan applications
• Heath insurance booklets/benefit sheets

When we meet you, our office will go over all options available to you and help you choose the path that works best for you.