Deciding To Split

Posted on: 14 June 2023

Divorce is a challenge for nearly all couples. As you navigate yours, one important move could make it easier, less expensive, and less stressful. What is this move? Achieving an uncontested divorce. This type of divorce — in which one party files for divorce and the other party is in full agreement with what is requested — is worth the effort. But how can you and your spouse reach this goal? Here are three steps to success.

Learn the Benefits 

You and your soon-to-be ex, first, need to learn how an uncontested divorce will help you both. This provides the best motivation to make the compromises that you'll need to make in order to resolve your issues without going to a judge. 

So, why work toward this option? Uncontested divorces save everyone time and money because you don't have to pay unnecessary legal expenses nor spend extra time in family court. Legal documents are drawn up and filed once, and the case can be closed fairly quickly. 

You and your children benefit from an uncontested divorce because it doesn't create drama in the family. There is no drawn-out arguing, and your divorce issues do not become part of the public court record for everyone to know. 

Identify Areas of Agreement

Start by determining what your actual areas of contention are — and what they are not. Discuss the key components of a divorce agreement or decree to see where you both can agree on a plan of action. This includes things like the division of assets and debts, custody, pets, the marital home, spousal or child support, and support of children beyond 18.

You may be surprised at how many things you can simply check off your list. Whether or not this leaves behind a number of items, you're already on your way to uncontested divorce success. 

Use Alternative Dispute Resolution

Alternative dispute resolution (ADR) involves meeting together to work out acceptable compromises on remaining divorce issues. The difference between ADR and simply meeting as a couple is that professionals are involved and structure is provided. Mediation is the most popular method of ADR, but you can tailor it in several ways that better meet your needs or personality. 

If you both can come to an agreement using ADR, your attorneys will then turn that into an uncontested divorce filing for the court. You can then move through the legal process speedily. 

Where to Learn More

No matter what part of the divorce process you're in, an uncontested divorce is often still possible. A divorce attorney in your state can help you learn the benefits and find a process that works for you.