Wheaton Contested Divorce Lawyer

Resolving A Contested Divorce in DuPage County

A contested divorce refers to a case where the parties cannot agree on various issues related to the divorce, such as spousal support, child custody arrangements, division of assets, and more. A contested divorce can be challenging for everyone involved, since such divorces usually involve high levels of disagreement between the spouses regarding the various issues that need to be resolved. During a contested divorce, there are many important factors to consider. As you prepare for a contested divorce, your attorney will be invaluable, ensuring that you will be able to address legal issues and disputes correctly.

At Fawell & Fawell, our experienced divorce attorney has ample experience handling contested divorce cases. With our knowledge of Illinois law and our dedication to our clients, we are prepared to take on even the most contentious divorce cases. Let us protect your rights and advocate for your interests as you navigate this difficult chapter in your life.

Considerations During a Contested Divorce

Most divorce cases can be completed by negotiating a settlement, and while a couple may appear in court to update the judge about the progress of their case, they may be able to complete an uncontested divorce without the need for litigation. However, if there are some areas where acceptable agreements cannot be made, a divorce trial may become necessary. Here are some considerations to keep in mind when preparing for a contested divorce:

• Emotional considerations - Divorce can be an emotionally charged process, regardless of the level of conflict between spouses. However, situations involving contentious disputes and courtroom litigation can involve especially strong emotions. During a contested divorce, it is essential to be prepared for the challenges that lie ahead. An attorney can provide valuable guidance and support throughout the process, helping determine the best steps to take to ensure that the proper arguments will be made during a divorce trial.
• Timeframe considerations - Uncontested divorces can often be completed in a matter of months. Contested divorces, however, can stretch on for much longer. Resolving all the issues in a contested divorce may take several months or even years. It is crucial to be prepared for a longer divorce process and to set realistic expectations for how long it may take to prepare for a divorce trial and address all outstanding issues in your case.
• Cost considerations - Contested divorces can, unfortunately, be costly. Preparing for a trial will involve a variety of legal expenses, and it may also be necessary to work with experts such as accountants, financial appraisers, and child custody evaluators. It is important to be prepared for significant legal expenses, and you can discuss possible fee arrangements with your attorney.
• Child custody - Matters related to children can be among the more contentious aspects of a contested divorce. A judge will consider various factors when making decisions about child custody, and the child's best interests will be the primary issue addressed. Depending on the circumstances of your case, a guardian ad litem may be appointed, or other professionals may perform an evaluation and provide recommendations to the court regarding the allocation of parental responsibilities and parenting time. It is vital to have a skilled attorney advocating on your behalf during this process in order to protect your children's best interests.
• Division of assets - The equitable distribution of marital assets can be another area of immense contention in a contested divorce. Having a knowledgeable attorney to help you navigate these issues and make decisions that will protect your financial interests can ensure you are not left in a situation where you will struggle to meet your needs after your divorce.
• Spousal support - Depending on the length of your marriage, the earning potential of each spouse, and other factors, spousal maintenance may be appropriate. This can be a significant financial consideration for both parties. You will need to have an attorney advocating for you as you address this issue and helping you determine the best steps to take to protect your financial interests.

Contact a Wheaton Contested Divorce Attorney

There is no question that contested divorces can be tough. However, by retaining experienced legal counsel, the situation can be significantly more manageable. At Fawell & Fawell, we take great pride in helping our clients throughout each step of the divorce process. We work to ensure that when everything is said and done and the divorce process is over, they can trust that they had the best legal representation they could have ever asked for. Contact us at 630-871-2400 for a free consultation.