Fort Worth Uncontested and Contested Divorce Lawyer

What Is the Difference Between an Uncontested and Contested Divorce?

Getting a divorce is rarely easy. Even if spouses can keep conflict to a minimum, they will still need to address multiple types of complex issues related to the dissolution of their marriage. Reaching agreements on how these issues should be resolved can take time, and a couple may encounter a variety of obstacles that affect their ability to complete the divorce process. Matters can become much more complicated if a couple encounters contentious disputes. By understanding what issues may lead to conflict, where agreements can be reached, and the types of complications that may arise, divorcing spouses can determine the best approach to take. Depending on the circumstances of a case, an uncontested divorce may be possible, but there are situations where a contested divorce may be unavoidable.

At Hatton & Hatton, PLLC, we understand how hard the divorce process can be, and we work to help our clients address and resolve their legal issues while avoiding unnecessary conflict and expenses. We provide advice and guidance on how to resolve disputes and reach effective agreements, and we create a custom strategy for each client that will help them take the right steps to achieve their goals. While we can focus on finding peaceable, cooperative solutions if that is what a person desires, we can also provide aggressive advocacy and representation during legal proceedings, fighting to protect our client's rights and ensuring that they can get through the divorce process successfully.

Uncontested Divorce

Many divorce cases are uncontested, and spouses are able to create settlement agreements that fully address all issues related to the dissolution of their marriages with little to no court involvement. However, this does not mean that a divorce will be conflict-free. Most couples encounter disputes or disagreements as they work to negotiate a settlement, but if they approach their case with the goal of resolving matters outside of the courtroom, they will often be able to save significant time, money, and emotional distress.

For clients who are looking to complete an uncontested divorce, we work to ensure they fully understand their rights and the laws that apply to them. We provide guidance on how certain types of disputes may be resolved, and we can assist with negotiations with the other party and their attorney, working to find solutions that will be acceptable for both spouses. We can draft and review a divorce settlement agreement, ensuring that it meets all legal requirements and properly addresses the various issues involved in the dissolution of the couple's marriage. We will make sure issues such as property division, spousal support, child custody, and visitation will be handled correctly, allowing our clients to move forward successfully after finalizing their divorce.

Contested Divorce

In cases where spouses are unable to come to an agreement on all issues involved in the end of their marriage, a contested divorce may be necessary. However, this does not necessarily mean that the process will be highly contentious or that disputes will involve extreme levels of conflict. It simply means that the outstanding issues will need to be resolved in court, and the final decisions may be left up to a judge.

The first step in a contested divorce is to determine how certain matters will be handled on a temporary basis. If children are involved, this step usually occurs within 14 to 20 days after filing for divorce. Arrangements for the temporary use of property and the spouses' responsibilities for paying bills or other expenses will also need to be addressed. Depending on the complexity of the case, how contested the issues are, and the court's docket, these orders could last anywhere from a couple months to over a year.

As a case proceeds, multiple options for resolving disputes may be available. A judge may order a couple to participate in mediation, or they may be encouraged to settle their disputes before the case will proceed to a trial. If some or all of the issues cannot be resolved, a trial may be held, after which a final divorce judgment will be issued. During a contested case, our attorneys will provide zealous advocacy for our client, doing everything we can to help them achieve the best possible outcome to their case.

Contact Our Fort Worth Contested and Uncontested Divorce Attorneys

Whether your divorce will be contested or uncontested, our attorneys can guide you through the legal process and help you determine the ideal strategy based on your unique circumstances. We will make sure you are prepared to address any complications you may encounter, and we will work to help you achieve the outcome you are looking for. Contact us today and schedule a free consultation by calling 817-349-8120.