Many people choose to file for an uncontested divorce in Massachusetts. This is because the process is often faster, cheaper, and more private. As a result, many people assume they won’t need to work with an attorney. This is not the case. There are a number of benefits when it comes to working with an attorney during your divorce. Read on to learn more about the process.
Uncontested Divorce
In an uncontested divorce, all marital issues between the spouses are resolved. This pertains to matters such as alimony, child custody and support, parenting time, division of assets, and any payment of debts. An uncontested divorce typically occurs when both spouses believe their marriage cannot be fixed and agree to the settlements of their divorce. This is also known as an “Irretrievable Breakdown of Marriage.” There are two types of irretrievable breakdowns:
- 1A Divorce: When both spouses agree on their marital issues.
- 1B Divorce: When marital issues are left unresolved.
Alternative methods of divorce:
When couples end their marriage on good terms and are able to work well together, they may partake in alternative methods of divorce. Some of these options may include mediation, arbitration, or collaborative divorce.
- Mediation takes place outside of the court and involves a neutral third party helping the couple work through the matters of their divorce.
- Arbitration is similar to mediation in that it takes place outside of the court and involves a neutral third party, but here, the third party can act as a judge and make legally binding decisions on behalf of the couple.
- A collaborative divorce involves each spouse working with their own attorney to partake in a series of four-way meetings to find creative ways to settle the couple’s marital issues. In some cases, additional parties will be brought in, including forensic accountants, private investigators, and more.
Can a divorce become contested?
A divorce is a stressful and emotional process. As a result, even couples ending their marriages on the best of terms can become quarrelsome. It is easy to disagree on major issues like child custody, child support, and more. As a result, uncontested divorces can quickly become contested. Additionally, divorces are document-heavy, and you may need an attorney to help you file the necessary documents.
If you are getting divorced, our firm is here to help. We will advocate for you every step of the way.
Contact our experienced Bristol County firm
For over 30 years, The Law Offices of Cynthia L. Hanley, P.C. has provided quality legal support and representation for clients in Bristol County and all of Massachusetts. Our firm’s experience eases the stress of clients while providing the legal services they deserve. If you need help through a contested divorce, contact The Law Offices of Cynthia L. Hanley, P.C. for a consultation today.
