Steps in an Uncontested Divorce
While we have all seen the familiar scenes on screen of a bitter divorce being settled in a tense courtroom with a judge banging their gavel and calling everyone to order, reality can often be quite different. Some couples dissolve their marriage amicably. Even though they no longer feel it makes sense for them to stay married, they might still have positive feelings towards each other. Even if they no longer feel the love, if the two spouses are good parents, they might manage to put aside their personal feelings for the sake of their child, even wanting their future ex to be granted a fair division of property and time with the child, to benefit the child. In cases where the couple is interested in avoiding animosity, an uncontested divorce can sometimes help prevent the divorce proceedings from turning into unnecessary fighting. If you and your spouse want to divorce but prefer to avoid getting dragged into fights and zero-sum games, you should speak with an experienced Wheaton, IL divorce lawyer to see whether an uncontested divorce might be something to aim for in your case.
What Does Uncontested Divorce Involve?
All divorces, regardless of the emotions and dynamics between the people involved, need to end with a settlement that stipulates how various issues will be arranged. These issues include:
- Alimony/spousal support
- Division of debt
- Division of assets (bank accounts, savings accounts, property, art, jewelry, stocks, bonds, retirement funds, etc.)
- Child-related arrangements, if relevant: Child support, parental responsibilities, parenting plan, etc.
If two spouses can formulate a mutually agreed settlement that includes all of the necessary issues for a divorce, they can file for an uncontested divorce. If there is even one issue they cannot agree on, they are not eligible for an uncontested divorce, but if their application includes agreements on every issue, they will likely be granted a divorce in this way, which can save not only emotional health but also a lot of time and money.
Schedule a Free Consultation with a DuPage County, IL Divorce Attorney
At Fawell & Fawell we are proud of our family legacy championing your rights. If you are considering an uncontested divorce, a knowledgeable and compassionate Wheaton, IL divorce lawyer can explain what you need to know and help you determine whether this might be the right move for you. Call 630-871-2400 to schedule a free consultation.